The Sunday News
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
Beitbridge East legislator Cde Albert Nguluvhe has embarked on a campaign to minimise cases of drug peddling in the border town.
The Parliamentarian yesterday said he has engaged the police and other community leaders to pool resources to fight the crime.
He said the level of crime, especially domestic violence and the abuse of drugs, was a cause for concern and that reducing such activities in the town required local leaders to enter into a social contract with all role players.
Cde Nguluvhe said through his intervention over 50 people were arrested last week in connection with drugs and drug peddling related cases.
“Together with other stakeholders we are rolling out an operation to reduce cases relating to drug abuse and drug peddling. So far more than 50 people have appeared in court where they were fined and released.
“However, the fight is not over, we are appealing to anyone with information to share with authorities so that the perpetrators of such crimes are brought to book.
“The quest to end or reduce drug abuse and peddling is part of my pre-election promises and I will continue working with those of like minds to ensure that we save our children from this criminal vice”.
He said in cases where there is rampant drug peddling there is bound to be an increase in violent turf wars and hence the need to arrest the situation in Beitbridge before it goes out of hand.
The legislator said it was worrying to note that the youth were the worst affected by drugs and substance abuse in the border town.
“The whole idea is to discourage those involved. I have been approached by parents and school heads over the worrisome situation on the ground and had to respond by taking meaningful action.
“I am glad we are making progress and would also want to warn those involved in this trade that the long arm of the law will catch up with them soon,” said Cde Nguluvhe.
He said religious leaders had a key role to play in shaping society, furthering peace and social cohesion. The most common abused drugs include; crystal meth, droshky, chimusoja, cocaine, glue, bron-cleer and embalming powder.
