Online Reporter
Nomalisa Gumpo, Zimpapers Writer
Emakhandeni and Luveve suburbs have emerged as major crime hotspots in Bulawayo, prompting police to urge residents to embrace community-based crime-fighting initiatives such as neighbourhood watch committees.
Specific areas around koChigumira and MaHadebe Beer Garden have been flagged as particularly problematic, with frequent reports of theft, robbery, and drug dealing.
Speaking at the inaugural Emakhandeni–Luveve Constituency Crime Indaba held at Luveve Youth Centre yesterday, local legislator Collins Bajila called on residents to collaborate closely with the police.
“This is about protecting our homes and our streets. Local leaders should work with business communities to fund neighbourhood watch committees so they have the resources needed for patrols to curb crime,” he said.
Bajila emphasised the need for unity, consistent action, and increased police patrols in high-crime zones.
“If we stand together and work closely with the police, we will win the fight against crime and make our communities safer,” he said.
The meeting, attended by police officers, local leaders, and businesspeople, saw residents echoing the call for stronger co-operation. Precious Dube highlighted the lack of support for volunteers working to protect the community.
“Residents and business people have an obligation to work with the police in fighting crime, which continues to rear its ugly head in our neighbourhood. Sadly, we have some residents who don’t want to co-operate and they refuse to contribute or assist those volunteering to protect the neighbourhood,” she said.
Ward 11 Councillor Susan Sithole appealed for the establishment of a permanent police base in Emakhandeni, noting that residents face long distances to report crimes — particularly dangerous at night.
“The residents of Emakhandeni are having challenges as they do not have a nearby station to report crime. We are appealing to authorities to consider setting up a police base,” she said.
Residents also proposed regular sharing of crime statistics and quarterly co-ordination meetings between police and neighbourhood watch committees to improve transparency and responsiveness.
Luveve Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Inspector Almos Musona, commended existing neighbourhood watch groups and encouraged more residents to get involved.
“As police, we encourage residents to work with the police to fight crime in their communities,” he said.
Bulawayo Progressive Residents’ Association Ward 11 chairperson, Eugene Mthunzi, urged residents to support the committees financially to help safeguard property.
“We should work well with the police and also pay the subscription fee for the local neighbourhood watch committee so that they can carry out their work. This helps protect property from theft,” he said.
Bulawayo has, in recent years, seen a rise in crimes such as muggings, house break-ins, drug peddling, and robbery — particularly in high-density suburbs.
