By Chisomo Phiri
A forestry scout ranger identified as Daudi Adam, 46,is in agony at St. Lukes Hospital in Zomba after angry charcoal producers hacked him in Chikala Hills in Machinga district.
Machinga Police publicist, Western Kansire says Adam was together with other officers patrolling the hill and managed to arrest eight charcoal producers in the process.
Says Kansire: “In return, the officers were blocked by other culprits who demanded the release of the suspects, which led to a battle.
“In the process, Adam was hacked on his chick and was rushed to St. Luke hospital where he was admitted.”
He adds that after the incident, the irate illegal charcoal producers rushed to Nauko Forest Office where they broke into the office and managed to steal 100 bicycles, a cell phone and cash amounting to K14,000.
Meanwhile, the police in the district are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident to apprehend the culprits responsible for both the charcoal production and the assault on the officer.
Recently, Machinga district chairperson, Cydreck Stande, urged the government to allow councils to recruit their own forest security guards for increased security measures and support for those working to protect precious ecosystems.
