Police in Mangochi have arrested 45 people on suspicion that they committed various offences during and after demonstrations organised by human rights activist Bon Kalindo yesterday in the district.

Mangochi Police Station public relations officer, Amina Tepani Daudi confirmed this adding that there could be more arrests.

She said: ” It is reported that, on the said day the procession started from Mpondasi Trading Centre to the district commissioner’s office where petition was delivered.

“It is on record that some people during and after the demonstrations went on rampage pelted stones at police officers, police motor vehicles and set ablaze sign posts, TNM and Airtel kiosks which were along the road.

Daudi added that after the petition was presented, some of the protesters, instead of returning to their places peacefully went further and invaded the District Education offices where they started throwing stones to the office blocks and damaged properties.

She said the rioters damaged 18 window glasses, smashed 10 motor vehicles which were parked within the premises belonging to government and private citizens.

“The exact value of the damaged property has not been assessed,” said Daudi.

The suspects have been charged with malicious damage and inciting violence while investigations are still underway to arrest more suspects.

Source:NPL