Govt to continue demolishing illegal structures,warns lands minister Deus Gumba

By Chisomo Phiri

Minister of Lands Deus Gumba has warned that government will continue to demolish any structure built on illegally acquired land in the country.

Gumba made the warning  at Chikho Hotel in Mponela, Dowa during a sensitisation meeting with police officers from Lilongwe Units.

The minister said this is one of strong actions President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s administration has put in place to address issues of land grabbing and encroachment in the country.

“My ministry will work closely with the Malawi Police Service to ensure that issues of land grabbing and encroachment are addressed amicably,” said Gumba.

Minister of Lands Hon Deus Gumba

He stressed the importance of citizens complying with the new land laws, particularly the Customary Land Act.

Ministry of Lands Principal Secretary, Devie Chilonga, highlighted the significance of working with the police to effectively address land-related issues.

Commissioner of Police for Central West Division, Emmanuel Soko, assured the minister that police will work diligently and within the bounds of the law to enforce the amended land laws.

Soko issued a stern warning to any law enforcement officers engaged in corrupt practices, stating that they would face legal consequences if found guilty.

“We are going to arrest any police officer involved in any activity of land grabbing and encroachment, as our duty is to uphold the rule of law,” said Soko.