The Sunday News
POLICE in Masvingo province have been challenged to be vigilant against crime amid reports that the region accounted for a 29 percent increase in cases of murder and a four percent increase in rape cases last year.
Recorded murder cases in the province were 47 in 2015 as compared to 36 the previous year while rape cases involving juveniles were 285 as compared to 274 in 2014.
Speaking during the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Masvingo belated Christmas party at Phoenix Camp last week, Planning and Development Commissioner Robson Mpofu called on police in Masvingo to engage community leadership to curb crime.
He said the office of public relations should employ robust mechanisms to curb incidents of murder and rape. He also deplored corrupt elements in the police force and warned that police will not hesitate to eject those found guilty of “uncouth” behaviour.
“As you are basking in the glory of achieving a 0,07 percent decrease in crime within the province it is imperative that you remain cognisant of the fact that there are some serious crimes. Of major concern are murder cases which have increased by 29 percent while raping of juveniles increased by four percent,” said Comm Mpofu.
He denounced corrupt members of the police and declared war against officers tarnishing the image of the organisation.
“We are prepared to act decisively against those who engage in corrupt activities without fear. There are some who think that taking the organisation to court would instill fear in us.
“We are equipped with legal and administrative apparatus to deal with malcontents in the organisation — the frown on the face of the goat will not stop it from being taken to the market. I urge you to be beacons of justice and morality in the communities you serve,” he added.
