Online Reporter
ALARM bells are ringing in Makokoba.
In the space of just two days, police arrested 12 people in separate drug-related operations in the suburb. Among them was a former Soccer Star of the Year, while another suspect was allegedly found with crystal methamphetamine.
This is not just another crime statistic to be filed away and forgotten.
It is a warning.
Makokoba is fast finding itself under the spotlight as one of Bulawayo’s emerging drug hotspots, and the city cannot afford to look away while dangerous substances creep deeper into communities.
The latest crystal meth bust is particularly worrying.
Five sachets of suspected methamphetamine were allegedly found in the pocket of a jacket worn by a 36-year-old woman. The drugs reportedly weighed two grams and had an estimated street value of ZWG750.
A day earlier, 11 people were arrested in the same suburb for allegedly smoking or possessing dagga.
Coincidence?
Perhaps.
The fact is, it would be dangerously reckless to ignore what the two operations are telling us.
The drug problem is here, and it is not waiting politely at the doorstep.
Police deserve credit for the relentless operations. Detectives from CID Drugs and Narcotics are clearly putting boots on the ground, following intelligence and disrupting people allegedly involved in drug use and distribution.
However, arrests alone will not win this war.
Zimbabwe has already recognised the seriousness of the problem through its national drug policy, which combines law enforcement with prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration.
That approach must be felt on the ground.
A young person experimenting with drugs is not merely a potential criminal. That young person could be a future teacher, doctor, engineer, footballer, entrepreneur or parent whose potential is being swallowed by addiction.
Crystal meth is particularly vicious. It can cause addiction, paranoia, hallucinations and serious damage to the brain and body. Cannabis, too, can affect memory, attention, learning and coordination, particularly when heavily or frequently used.
So, while police chase the dealers and users, communities must chase the causes.
Parents must talk to their children before the streets do. Schools must strengthen drug-awareness programmes. Churches, community organisations and health professionals must provide spaces where young people can seek help without shame.
Residents must stop protecting drug dealers simply because they are neighbours, relatives or friends.
The fight belongs to everyone.
Makokoba has a proud history and a vibrant community. It must not become synonymous with drugs.
Bulawayo magistrate Themba Chimiso made it clear that Zimbabwe is at war with drugs.
The message from Makokoba must be equally clear:
Not here. Not in our homes. Not in our streets. Not at the expense of our children’s future.
