The Sunday News
Sandra Tekere, Sunday News Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police have launched its Client Service Charter for the Bulawayo Suburban District, which calls for police and members of the public to work together in the fight against crime.
Speaking during the launch yesterday, the officer commanding Bulawayo Suburban District, Chief Superintendent Rita Nomsa Masina said members of the public should play an active role in curbing crime.
“As you know the police have the responsibility which is written in the Constitution of the country to prevent crime but the police cannot do that alone. Residents should assist the police in putting criminals behind bars, therefore the element of fear should not exist. There should be a cordial relationship between the police and the public in fighting against crime,” she said.
She reminded members of the public that they have a right to speak out and report when they see police officers engaging in corruption.
Chief Supt Masina urged members of the public not to hesitate to visit the Officer-in-Charge of the Bulawayo Central Police Station and to use social platforms to report whenever they feel their rights have been trampled on by police officers.
“If you use the social platforms like Whatsapp and the ZRP website make sure what you are reporting about the police details or a suspect is true because if one happens fabricate issues he or she will be arrested, so people should use social media responsibly,” she said.
Chief Supt Masina said there was a reduction in crime in 2016 compared to last year which was a clear indication of good relations between the police and public.
Speaking at the same function Bulawayo Suburban District Crime Consultative Committee (DCCC) chairman Matienga Muchemwa said the DCCC was the link between the community and the police and their main function was to police their communities and report criminal activities taking place locally.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Precious Simango said all the police districts in the province have launched the service charter.
“The launch is meant to inform members of the public of what to expect from the police service to enhance police public participation in the fight against crime,” she said.
