By Burnett Munthali
Balaka Police have raised alarm over the rising cases of youth-related crimes in the district, highlighting the urgent need for interventions to curb the trend.
Speaking at the conclusion of a youth football bonanza for players under the age of 14, Senior Police Officer Victor Malunga emphasized the increasing rate of criminal activities involving young people.
The bonanza, which had a total sponsorship of K450,000, served as a platform to not only showcase young football talent but also to address pressing social issues affecting the youth.
Malunga revealed that in 2023, a total of 183 young individuals were arrested for various offenses, a number that has increased significantly to 232 in 2024.
This upward trend, he noted, reflects a growing crisis that requires immediate attention from all stakeholders, including law enforcement, community leaders, and policymakers.
He attributed the rise in crime among youths to multiple factors, including lack of structured recreational activities, unemployment, and social neglect.
According to Malunga, many of the young offenders often find themselves engaging in theft, drug abuse, and other delinquent behaviors due to idleness and lack of positive engagement.
Recognizing the role that sports can play in shaping the lives of young people, members of the National Youth Football Association (NYFA) are advocating for more investment in youth sports programs.
One of the committee members, Muhammad Ajussa, stressed the need for various stakeholders, including government authorities, corporate sponsors, and community leaders, to support youth football initiatives as a way of providing young people with constructive activities.
He argued that structured sports programs not only help to keep young people away from crime but also instill discipline, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility.
Similarly, Bartholomew Boaz, who is responsible for youth football development in Balaka, expressed his commitment to strengthening football programs in the district.
He stated that initiatives such as the youth football bonanza are designed not only to nurture football talent but also to provide an alternative to crime and delinquency.
By engaging young people in structured sporting activities, Boaz believes that communities can significantly reduce crime rates while creating opportunities for youth empowerment.
The growing concern over youth crime in Balaka calls for a collaborative approach to address the underlying causes of delinquency.
While law enforcement plays a crucial role in maintaining security, preventive measures such as investing in education, sports, and vocational training are essential in shaping a positive future for young people.
As stakeholders push for increased support for youth programs, it remains to be seen whether such initiatives will receive the necessary funding and policy backing to make a lasting impact.
