Don Makanyanga
MEMBERS of the Zimbabwe Republic Police from various Criminal Investigation Department (CID) stations in Harare on Sunday traded their investigation skills for the football pitch as they participated in the third edition of the LM Auctioneers CID Harare Soccer Tournament.
Commercial Crimes Department (CCD) were crowned champions after beating CID HQ Rangers in the final.
Speaking at the event, Chief Superintendent Austin Chikwababa, who delivered a speech on behalf of the CID Director, applauded LM Auctioneers for supporting detectives through sport and recreation despite the prevailing economic challenges.
“I would like to express my gratitude to our sponsor, LM Auctioneers, who, despite the harsh economic climate, has chosen to associate with detectives from various CID Harare stations in as far as sports and recreation is concerned,” he said.
Chief Supt Chikwababa said the sponsorship motivated detectives by giving them an opportunity to take time off their demanding schedules and interact in a refreshing environment.
He said sports played an important role in developing physically fit and mentally resilient police officers, given the demanding nature of policing.
“Dutiful and energetic police officers are developed through sports. Criminals are always there to put to test the fitness of police officers, as some of them turn violent whilst some have to be chased after,” he said.
He added that sporting activities helped improve officers’ mental health by reducing stress, improving moods and fostering resilience, ultimately enhancing their performance.
Chief Supt Chikwababa said fighting crime required collective efforts from law enforcement agencies and the business community.
“Policing is not a lone battle but needs everyone’s participation. The gesture by the business community in the fight against crime is highly appreciated,” he said.
He urged other businesses to emulate LM Auctioneers and partner the police in supporting programmes aimed at equipping officers physically, mentally and spiritually.
“To this end, I call upon the business community to emulate LM Auctioneers and join hands with the police by sponsoring various police programmes that are aimed at equipping the police physically, mentally and spiritually,” he said.
Chief Supt Chikwababa urged participants to remain committed to their duties and intensify efforts to rid society of criminal elements.
Chief Supt Chikwababa congratulated CCD on their victory and encouraged the teams that did not make it to the final to remain focused ahead of the next edition, expressing appreciation to LM Auctioneers for its continued assistance to detectives beyond sporting activities.
“We are aware that you do so much for our detectives, both in sporting activities and their day-to-day operations, you are greatly appreciated,” he said.
