Crime rate down

Post Correspondent
The Zimbabwe Republic Police through its concerted efforts to achieve a safe and transforming nation has managed to reduce crime in Manicaland by 7 percent. This was revealed by the Officer Commanding Crime, Manicaland, Assistant Commissioner Ndebele at the official relaunch of the Police Service Charter which took place in Mutare’s Hobhouse last week.

Speaking at the ceremony, Assistant Commissioner Ndebele said the policing initiatives yielded good results inasfar as reducing crime in the province is concerned, adding that members of the public should work together with the police as equal partners.

“It is pleasing to note that because of the community policing initiatives, the overall crime in Manicaland has decreased by 7 percent from the period January to June 2014, as compared to the same period last year. In line with our vision 2020, which advocates a crime free nation, we are in the right direction.

“The overall crime rate in January to June 2013 was 4 828, but the ZRP managed to reduce this to an impressive 4 495 in January to June 2014.
“The 333 difference marks the 7 percent crime reduction in Manicaland,” he said.

Assistant Commissioner Ndebele also took time to urge business people to formalise their businesses and have all the necessary documentation of operation to avoid breaching the police’s initiatives in enforcing the Zimbabwean laws.

Said Assistant Commissioner Ndebele: “The ZRP is in full support of the Government’s economic blueprint, Zim-Asset, and to show its support, the police will ensure that all businesses whether small or medium are operating in a peaceful and conducive environment provided by our friendly environment.

“To add on, the ZRP as an organisation has zero tolerance on corruption and any suspicion of corruption within and outside the police force must be exposed publicly or anonymously through our suggestion boxes. Those found wanting must and will face the full wrath of the law, regardless of colour, creed or position in the society.”