CITIZENS’ SAFETY WORRY CPRA

By Scoop Reporter

THE alarming reports of missing persons that have recently characterized the country has become a source of worry that needs attention, Centre for Peace Research and Advocacy (CPRA) Executive Director Clifton Chifuwe has said.

Mr. Chifuwe said it was therefore important that the security wings remained vigilant and ensured the safety of the public.

He implored the police to intensify patrols to protect citizens, especially children and elderly persons, who may be more susceptible to the scourge due to their lower risk perception.

He noted that the surge in reported cases of missing persons recently left much to be desired, saying citizens should as well remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in protecting the lives of children.

It was only through collective effort and awareness, he said, that the issue could be addressed and mitigate the growing threat to society.

“We are aware that human trafficking crimes are alarmingly high globally, and it is imperative that our security wings remain vigilant, as Zambia may just be targeted by criminals involved in human trafficking.

“We recognize that the volatile security situation in the country could be exploited by criminals, especially if security wings are preoccupied with political cases,” Mr. Chifuwe said.

He further urged parents with school-going children to educate them about the dangers of trusting strangers and to be cautious even with those they might be related to.

“Children should be advised to move in groups, as it is not easy for criminals to target victims in a group setting. School pickups and drop-offs should be conducted by parents or trusted relatives and school authorities should not be allowing other persons without confirming with parents or guardians to pick children to ensure children’s safety is guaranteed,” he said.

With the increasing cases of missing persons, he said, the safety of citizens to freely move about their daily activities was significantly compromised.

 “Such reports have the potential to ignite conflict within our communities if the security situation is not arrested by security wings. We strongly urge the immigration and other law enforcement agencies to be on high alert at border points and airports to curb this transnational organized crime,” he said.

 Recently, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of people, including children reported missing. A Yango driver was gruesomely murdered by unknown individuals under unclear circumstances.