The residents of Mahajanga can finally breathe a sigh of relief following the arrest of a mentally unstable individual who had been wandering the city with a knife for several days.
Following his apprehension by the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR) of Mahajanga on Sunday morning, the individual, known as Jôda, has been admitted to the Androva University Hospital Center (CHU) for urgent psychiatric care, following consultations with his family.
For several days, Jôda had been roaming the streets of Mahajanga brandishing a bladed weapon. Last week, he was spotted in the Mahabibo market, mingling with the crowd while armed, which caused significant fear and anxiety among the population. Many residents had alerted law enforcement to ensure his arrest.
“Public agitation was palpable. His presence in the city caused terror among the population. The National Police had to take action. His mother was summoned to the central police station, where she accepted the detention conditions and the decisions made. A benefactor is covering the costs related to his treatment,” explained Central Commissioner Tsaramiafara Razafimanantsoa.
While he no longer poses an immediate danger to the residents of Mahajanga, the presence of other individuals suffering from mental disorders wandering freely in public spaces continues to pose security challenges. Authorities are urged to find appropriate solutions for their care and removal from public areas when their condition poses a risk.
It is worth noting that Jôda had previously terrorized the local community (fokonolona) in several neighborhoods, including Tsaramandroso Ambany five months ago, where he smeared public water taps with feces. Similar incidents were also reported in the Ambalavola neighborhood four months ago.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-10 06:23:59 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/securite-un-desequilibre-mental-interne.html