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Freeman Razemba and Victor Maphosa
More than 370 suspected machete gang members have been arrested since New Year’s Day on charges that include murder, robbery and assault with the latest four being picked up in Norton in connection with the robbery of 40kg of gold ore and cash.
In an interview yesterday, deputy national police spokesperson Chief Superintendent Blessmore Chishaka said patrols and roadblocks will continue.
“Our officers are on the ground doing patrols, stop and searches as part of our day-to-day operations to ensure that we increase police visibility. We urge members of the public to cooperate whenever they are stopped.
“We would want to, however, emphasise that we are not intimidating anyone. We are simply doing our work. Police visibility is important in curbing criminal activities,” he said.
Chief Supt Chishaka said adequate manpower had been deployed.
“In as far as the machete gangs are concerned, we are on top of the situation. More than 370 accused persons have been arrested countrywide since the beginning of the year and they were committing crimes mostly associated with machete gangs and they are appearing in court,” he said.
Police recovered stolen gold ore, machetes, other weapons including axes, mining equipment and explosives.
“We are continuing to account for these criminals and we want to urge members of the public not to panic. They should also quickly alert the police on any suspicious movements and criminal activities in their areas,” Chief Supt Chishaka said.
Chief Supt Chishaka said Norton police arrested Privilege Damson (29), Casper Karuru (32), Stephen Mazambani (24) and Godwell Mukune (31) for armed robbery after they ambushed the complainant and stole 40kg of gold ore and $300.
The quartet was armed with two machetes, an axe and two logs.
Online Reporter