In a major crackdown on drug and substance abuse, the Gweru Urban policing district has apprehended 148 people, including 42 identified drug lords, in recent weeks.
The initiative is part of a comprehensive ZRP Gweru Urban District campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drugs, domestic violence, and anti-stock theft.
Speaking during the campaign, Officer Commanding Gweru Urban Chief Superintendent Ecock Chishiri, commended community involvement in combating drug-related issues.
He encouraged residents to utilise suggestion boxes to report any known drug dealers.
“The public should use suggestion boxes to give us names of drug peddlers so that we arrest them,” he said.
The rise in drug and substance abuse, he noted, is impacting all generations and correlating with increased criminal activity, as individuals under the influence often display reckless behaviour, sometimes referred to as having “Dutch” courage.
Despite the challenges posed by drug misuse, Chief Supt Chishiri reported a promising decline in overall crime in the district. From January to September of this year, the district recorded 7,683 criminal cases, down from 8,051 during the same period last year, reflecting a 0.5 percent reduction.
“We have dealt with 7 683 cases from January to September this year, which is a reduction from 8 051 cases the same period last year,” he said.
However, unlawful entry and theft remain critical issues, prompting Chief Supt Chishiri to urge residents to participate in neighbourhood watch committees to better safeguard their properties.
He also addressed other prevalent crimes in the area, including bar and domestic violence, robberies, and stock theft.
Officer Commanding Crime for Midlands Province, Assistant Commissioner Helena Mahonde, revealed that a significant proportion of crimes are perpetrated by youths aged between 19 and 21, often under the influence of drugs.
She is disappointed that while the community is aware of local drug dealers, many are hesitant to report them.
In addition to tackling drug abuse, Asst. Comm. Mahonde cautioned the public againstm buying meat products from unlicensed street vendors, as this practice contributes to stock theft and undermines community safety.
“We have realised that urban centres are a ready market for meat sold in vehicle boots, thereby promoting stock theft,” she noted.
Highlighting the importance of a harmonious community, Asst. Comm. Mahonde also urged residents to promote peaceful relationships at home to combat the increasing rates of domestic violence that affect families across the district.
New Ziana
