Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
DEPUTY Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, has urged the police to deal with the rogue elements within the force to restore public confidence and ensure efficient service delivery.
He was speaking during an anti-stock theft interactive meeting between the police and community in Gungwe area in Gwanda on Thursday where he said quality service delivery by the police was essential in eradicating crime.
Dr Marupi, who is also the Member of Parliament for Gwanda South Constituency, said Government was concerned about public complaints over delays in investigating reported cases and alleged neglect by some officers handling serious cases.
He said rampant cases of stocktheft in Gungwe area have crippled communities. The ZRP anti stocktheft crack team is conducting interactive meetings across the country.
“Livestock plays a crucial role in this community but it’s sad that many have been stolen. People would have worked hard to grow their herds. Cattle are being stolen from grazing areas and even kraals,” said Dr Marupi.
He said some police officers are being accused of working together with stock thieves. “If this is happening, then who will protect the community?” said Dr Marupi.
“We want the police to be known for their effectiveness and upholding ethics. If it means getting rid of rogue elements within the police force then so be it.”
Deputy Minister Marupi said Government wants people to feel safe in their communities and this is possible if the police force has honest members.
He appealed to the police leadership to ensure that the interactive meetings mark the start of a new and effective era in fighting stocktheft.
Dr Marupi applauded the police leadership for engaging people at grassroot.
He also urged people to co-operate with the police in the fight against crime saying it is only when people play their part that communities can be rid of crime.
Deputy Minister Marupi chided those who protect criminals saying such people are accomplices.
Speaking during the same meeting, national anti-stocktheft co-ordinator, Assistant Commissioner Frederick Mbengwa, said the police force has no space for rogue elements. He urged people to be bold and report corrupt officers.
“We have zero tolerance to corruption and criminals in police uniform. Please tell us of such people so that we can discipline them as they don’t have a place within the force,” he said.
“We don’t expect that personnel who should be ensuring that there are no criminal activities to be the ones who are committing crime.
“If there are other officials within the Government system who are engaging in corrupt activities please report them.”
Villagers who spoke during the meeting called for deployment of more officers at police bases. They also called for stiffer penalties for stocktheft.
“There is a need for stiffer penalties, which will serve as a deterrent to would-be stock thieves. We also have a challenge of cattle buyers who offer us ridiculous prices,” said one of the villagers. — @DubeMatutu
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