Thyolo Child Justice Magistrate Kondani Chinangwa has called on the Thyolo District Council to establish a safety house for children in conflict with the law, citing a rise in juvenile-related cases and growing community frustration.

Chinangwa said cases involving children under the age of 14 have been on the rise, with nine cases recorded so far this year.

“We are seeing an increase in cases involving very young children, some even under 12 years old. The Penal Code exempts such children from criminal responsibility unless proven otherwise, but the community is becoming increasingly hostile,” said Chinangwa.

He warned that some criminals are taking advantage of child protection laws by using minors to commit offences such as burglary.

“There are people who are manipulating these children to commit crimes, knowing the law will shield them. This not only endangers the children but also fuels mob justice,” he added.

Chinangwa emphasized that having a dedicated safety house would ensure that children are protected and rehabilitated in a secure environment rather than being exposed to community hostility or kept alongside adult offenders.

Echoing the same concern, Thyolo District Child Probation Officer, Victor Daudi, said inadequate resources are hampering child protection efforts in the district.

“A safety house would help us a lot. It provides a safe space where children can stay temporarily while their cases are being handled. Currently, we lack such facilities, which makes our work very difficult,” Daudi said.

He further pointed out that existing child rehabilitation centers such as Mpemba and Chirwa face serious challenges.

“The conditions in some of these centers are not good. That’s why some children end up escaping, putting their lives at risk,” he explained.

Daudi stressed that improved local facilities would not only protect vulnerable children but also strengthen the justice and rehabilitation system in the district.