Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
POLICE have revealed that they recorded 1,340 armed robbery cases in the country in 2024 and the numbers fell to 1,282 cases last year.
Police national spokesperson, Commisioner Paul Nyathi, said although this represents a slight decrease, the figures remain unacceptably high. He said this requires collective action from both law enforcement agencies and the private sector.
Comm Nyathi said this during his presentation at the Peace Security Company workshop in Harare.
“Analysis of these robbery cases shows that criminals are becoming increasingly organised, violent and sophisticated,” he said.
“In many incidents, security guards manning premises are the first targets.
“They are attacked, tied up, assaulted and in some cases fatally injured as criminals seek access to cash, safes, strong rooms and valuable commodities.
“Business people are not immune. The nation still remembers the Mutangadura robbery case in which a businessperson was killed by armed robbers. Such incidents highlight the dangers faced by business people when criminals suspect that business people are in possession of cash or valuables. We continue to urge security companies and business owners to adequately train, equip and support security guards deployed at their premises.
“Criminals are becoming increasingly ruthless in their operations, making it imperative for organisations to strengthen preventive measures rather than relying solely on reaction after an incident has occurred.”
Comm Nyathi said another common offence affecting the business sector was unlawful entry into premises.
Criminals are breaking into warehouses, factories, retail outlets, offices and storage facilities to steal cash, equipment, fuel, stock, raw materials and other valuable assets.
“These incidents often occur at premises with inadequate lighting, weak perimeter security, defective alarm systems or insufficient surveillance.Theft cases also continue to affect many organisations. The Zimbabwe Republic Police regularly investigates cases involving theft of company funds, fuel pilferage, theft of stock, theft of minerals, theft of agricultural inputs and other forms of internal fraud.
“Investigations have revealed that some of these crimes are facilitated by employees or former employees with access to sensitive operational information.
“Indeed, one of the most significant observations from robbery investigations is that many robberies are masterminded using inside information. Criminals often possess detailed knowledge regarding cash holdings, banking schedules, payroll dates, security deployments, shift patterns, alarm systems and storage locations. Such information can only be obtained from individuals with direct or indirect access to organizational operations.
“It is therefore critical for companies to strengthen recruitment and vetting procedures.”
He said the business community must also pay particular attention to cash management practices. Large amounts of cash should not be kept unnecessarily at business premises.
“Cash collections should be banked promptly and businesses are strongly encouraged to utilise professional Cash-In-Transit services whenever large sums of money are being moved.
“Equally important is the need to safeguard information relating to financial transactions.
“Details concerning cash holdings, payroll schedules, banking arrangements and cash movements should never be disclosed to unauthorised persons. We continue to encounter robbery cases where criminals appear to have had prior knowledge of the exact amount of money being transported, where it was being taken and the route being used.”
He added: “The Zimbabwe Republic Police further encourages businesses to invest in modern security infrastructure. Effective alarm systems, CCTV surveillance, access control systems, perimeter lighting, secure fencing and properly trained security personnel remain critical components of crime prevention.
“Security systems should be tested regularly to ensure they remain functional and effective.
“As the Zimbabwe Republic Police, we remain committed to creating a safe and secure environment for businesses to thrive.
“The Government continues to support our operations through the provision of vehicles and motorcycles which have significantly improved police visibility, mobility and response capabilities. These resources have enhanced our ability to attend crime scenes quickly, conduct patrols and respond to reports of criminal activity.
“In addition, the Zimbabwe Republic Police is conducting crime awareness campaigns throughout the country to educate communities and businesses on emerging crime trends and preventive measures.
“We are strengthening intelligence-led policing, enhancing investigations and working closely with private security companies and community structures to combat crime.
“I therefore urge all businesses represented here today to actively participate in Community Policing programmes and establish strong working relationships with their local police stations.”
He also addressed the issue of drugs.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is equally concerned about the proliferation of dangerous drugs and illicit substances,” said Comm Nyathi.
“Criminal syndicates continue to exploit transport networks to move illegal drugs across the country.
“Some transport operators, unknowingly, carry prohibited substances concealed among legitimate cargo, while others deliberately participate in such criminal activities.
“We, therefore, urge transport companies and logistics operators to exercise due diligence by thoroughly inspecting consignments and maintaining proper documentation for all goods transported.
“Failure to do so may expose companies to criminal liability and reputational damage.”
He added:
“Related to this, is the growing problem of production of illicit substances.
“Police investigations have uncovered cases in which business premises, warehouses and industrial facilities are being used to manufacture illicit brews without complying with health, safety and licensing regulations.
“Such activities endanger public health, undermine legitimate businesses and fuel criminal networks.
“Property owners and managers should closely monitor activities taking place on their premises and immediately report suspicious operations to the police.
“We urge the commercial security sector to consider joining hands with police in fighting criminal activities.”
