Malawi Police Service (MPS) has disclosed plans to tighten security ahead of Christmas and New Year festivities in order to ensure safety and security of Malawians and ensure that peace is maintained.

MPS Public Relations Officer, Peter Kalaya said police has put in place strategies such a working in collaboration with members of the general public to safeguard lives and properties of people.

“The police will ensure its visibility in all areas by deploying officers for day and night patrols. Residents are asked to report any suspicious activities or people in their communities.

“Those going away for holidays should leave someone behind to take care of the house and must also inform neighbours and should move away from the fence items such as drums and ladders which robbers normally use to get in,” Kalaya has said.

He appealed to the merry makers to take caution to know their guests and shoppers to be careful as robbers take advantage of the excitement during this period.

Police will erect temporary road checks in townships and other crime prone areas as one way of ensuring safety and adherence to road regulations.

“All road users are warned that the police will continue to act and apply the law on people found breaking traffic rules during this season.

“Pedestrians or pedal cyclists are advised to wear reflector jackets for visibility since they are the most victims of road accidents that happen at night,” said Kalaya.

Police has since warned against driving under the influence of alcohol, overloading, speeding and driving unroad worth vehicles calling upon passengers to caution drivers when they are speeding or driving recklessly.