Mahajanga residents can finally rest easy following the arrest of a mentally unstable individual who had been wandering the city with a knife for several days. After being apprehended by law enforcement at the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR) in Mahajanga on Sunday morning, the man known as Jôda has been admitted to CHU Androva for urgent psychiatric care. Prior to his admission, authorities met with his family.

For several days, Jôda had been roaming Mahajanga's streets carrying a blade. Last week, he was spotted at Mahabibo market among crowds, armed with the sharp weapon. The situation sparked widespread concern and fear among residents, prompting many to alert police for 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. She accepted the detention conditions and decisions made. A benefactor is covering his treatment expenses," explained Central Commissioner Tsaramiafara Razafimanantsoa.

Jôda no longer poses an immediate danger to Mahajanga's residents. However, other mentally ill individuals wandering freely in public spaces continue to present security concerns. Authorities must find appropriate solutions for their care and removal from public areas when their condition poses a risk.

Recall that Jôda previously terrorized neighborhoods including Tsaramandroso Ambany five months ago, when he defaced and smeared public water fountains and pump taps with feces. This incident angered the former local chief, who filed a complaint with police in April, fearing a repeat of similar incidents dating back to 1976.

In Ambalavola fokontany, the disturbed man also soiled an ATM kiosk with feces four months ago. He had previously smeared feces on his own face and claimed individuals paid him 500 ariary to perform such acts.