The Sunday News
Fairness Moyana Hwange Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police in Matabeleland North has embraced the digital era by introducing a 24-hour Whatsapp platform to encourage members of the public to send information, complaints and tip-offs as part of curbing crime and improving service delivery. Acting provincial spokesperson Sergeant Namatirai Mashona said the introduction of the platform was an addition to other community policing initiatives.
“ZRP Matabeleland North Province has introduced a Whatsapp platform to keep abreast with technology in a world that has embraced digitalisation. We are encouraging the public to make use of the 24-hour platform which is an addition to other policing initiatives we have to send information, complainants and tip-offs that will go a long way in assisting us in effectively serving the community,” said Sgt Mashona.
The number for the platform is 0784270800. She called on members of the public to make use of the platform since the community played an important role in fighting crime by reporting any illegal or suspicious activity in real time.
“Crime is a social problem hence is not the sole burden of the police but requires a multi-faceted approach. Crime occurs within the communities and members of the public have information on most of the perpetrators. Community policing provides an opportunity for the police to share the crime control and order maintenance responsibilities with the public,” said Sgt Mashona.
The law enforcement agency also runs other community policing initiatives such as Neighbourhood Watch Community, suggestion boxes, crime consultative committees, business against crime forum and stock theft, among others.
