Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku, Zimpapers Writer
THE recent spike in armed robberies across Zimbabwe has prompted security experts to call for urgent reforms in crime intelligence and investigation strategies, warning that outdated systems and lack of capacity are leaving banks, businesses and individuals dangerously vulnerable.
The country has experienced a wave of high-profile robberies in recent months, many targeting institutions and individuals handling large sums of cash. Analysts say the trend exposes serious weaknesses in crime prevention, intelligence gathering, and routine policing.
A lecturer in Peace and Security Studies at Lupane State University, Elphas Dube, said communities must be empowered to take a proactive role in crime prevention through stronger partnerships with the police.
He encouraged the formation of policing committees and neighborhood watch units that work closely with law enforcement to develop effective anti-crime strategies.
“In this setup, everyone becomes a law enforcer. New residents must be vetted, and those with suspicious lifestyles reported,” said Mr Dube.
A senior security expert, who requested anonymity, criticised companies and security firms for being predictable and complacent. He argued that many robberies succeed because criminals observe and exploit established routines.
“Cash is banked on the same days, using the same routes and even the same branded security vehicles. Criminals simply watch, plan and strike,” the expert said.
To disrupt these patterns, he recommended the use of unmarked vehicles, variation in pickup times and rotation of routes. He also raised alarm over alleged collusion between certain police officers and criminal syndicates.
“There are cases where robbers share their loot with officers in exchange for protection and inside information. This completely undermines investigations,” he said.
Mr Ishmael Jassat, a personal protection specialist and chairperson of the ZRP Business Against Crime Forum in Bulawayo, urged the private sector to modernise their security infrastructure.
“Companies must embrace smart technologies such as high-definition CCTV, real-time tracking, intelligent safes with remote monitoring, and time-delay functions. Employee screening should be continuous, not a one-off process,” he said.
He also advocated the integration of both covert and overt surveillance systems to deter would-be criminals.
A retired security services official with over 30 years’ experience blamed the rising number of unresolved robberies on the departure of experienced officers and the collapse of established intelligence networks.
He noted that most seasoned detectives have since retired, while those remaining often lack investigative instincts and struggle to build reliable informer networks.
“There is an urgent need for retraining and capacity-building for detectives and intelligence officers. They must be re-skilled in modern investigative techniques, how to cultivate informants and how to recognise the signs of an impending heist,” he said.
Experts also warned the public against keeping large sums of money at home or at business premises. They called on the police and security services to roll out national awareness campaigns to educate citizens on modern security practices.
