The Malawi Police Service in Balaka district on Sunday advised some congregations to observe COVID-19 preventive measures.
The police found some Catholics, Anglicans, Presbyterians and Church of Christ members praying at their respective churches.
The police took time to remind them about the suspension to gather in larger groups.
Mainstream churches including the Catholic, Anglican and CCAP suspended church services at their parishes and prayer houses as a preventive measure for COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Malawi News Agency in Balaka, the police allowed the congregations to continue with the services but advised them to suspend such future gatherings.
Church of Christ Pastor MacDonald Chisale told Mana that after a discussion the police allowed them to congregate and that he promised that the church would now follow the preventive measures.
“We have asked the police to at least allow us to worship so that at the end alert our subjects to comply with the preventive measures from next week,” said Chisale.
Meanwhile, Catholics in many social media groups have welcomed the suspension of Sunday church services and called on members to attend prayers at the small christian communities (Miphakati) while observing social distance.
Episcopal Conference of Malawi suspended church gatherings including celebration of mass which is now offered privately by priests.
Eastern Region Police Spokesperson Joseph Sauka said the police would ensure that preventive measures are followed.
Sorry DPP. Too late, too little. Severe damage already done. Your damage control or reduction measures came very late. People started discussing the matter very early in the morning. Your council chairman’s claim that the opposition bribed the police is the most laughable of your recent gaffes.