Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
IN a move aimed at strengthening enforcement and compliance with environmental laws, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has partnered with a specialised Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) unit to arrest offenders.
EMA inspection officers do not have arresting powers, making collaboration with law enforcement agencies critical in dealing with environmental crimes.
Speaking during a question-and-answer session at the ongoing two-day multi-stakeholder engagement on challenges in the investigation, prosecution and adjudication of environmental cases — with a particular focus on the Matabeleland region — EMA legal officer Ms Linda Masudze said the partnership has already begun to yield positive results.
“We have a specialised police unit which are now affiliated to the Agency and while their numbers are not that many, we believe their coming on board has yielded results for us,” said Ms Masudze.
The engagement brings together law enforcement agencies and other key stakeholders to discuss ways of improving coordination and effectiveness in addressing environmental crimes across the region.
