The Malawi Police Service (MPS) says it is investigating acts of violence and riot that erupted during Thursday`s nationwide demonstrations calling for the resignation of Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) chairperson Justice Jane Ansah.

According to National Police Spokesperson James Kadadzera, some individuals masquerading as protesters caused havoc in course of the demonstrations as they damaged both private and government property.

“Some demonstrators were armed with catapults others with panga knives and they were attacking police officers along the way, attacking people`s shops, houses, offices including those of JICA, damaging vehicles and the like,” Kadadzera said.

He further condemned the conduct as uncalled for and that all those behind the unrest will be responsible for their acts in court if arrested.

“These we cannot call them demonstrators but criminals hiding behind demonstrations so as police we strongly condemn this and our investigators are on ground as we are talking following up on this cases, and the perpetrators will be brought to book,” cautioned Kadadzera.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the demonstrators looted shops in Lilongwe and stoned at office buildings on their way to Kamuzu Palace where they were blocked by the Malawi Defence Soldiers.

Meanwhile, according to the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), the countywide anti Ansah peaceful demonstrations will resume next week on Tuesday and Thursday is the MEC Chairpersons fails to step down.