Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
POLICE in Matabeleland South Province have declared war against machete-wielding gangs that continue to terrorise residents following an increase in attacks on residents at business centres and mining areas in the province.
Speaking during the re-launch of the Matabeleland South Province 2026 Client Service Charter in Insiza District on Friday, Officer Commanding Police in the province, Commissioner Elizabeth Phiri, said by reinvigorating the Police Client Service Charter, the police force is reiterating its commitment to the oath sworn to the people of Zimbabwe.
“Driven by the inherent obligation to serve, we are gathered to renew our covenant and reiterate our commitment to the very oath that we swore to the people of Zimbabwe by reinvigorating the Police Client Service Charter,” he said.
“We are relaunching this Client Service Charter at a time when the province has recorded several cases of machete-wielding groups who have been moving around, assaulting people at Business Centres and panning sites.
“It’s also disturbing to note that cases of drug trafficking, drug abuse and stock theft have been rampant. May I take this opportunity to forewarn the criminals that the long arm of the law will catch up with them.”
Comm Phiri said the police remain committed to meeting the service delivery expectations of clients, adding that the Charter pronounces the commitment of the police to meet the service delivery expectations of clients and meet the minimum service delivery standards expected by the public.
“This charter is far more than a document; it’s a solemn pledge and handshake extended to every human being within the confines of Zimbabwe. I, therefore, take this opportunity to pledge our collective and undivided attention to pursue the needs and aspirations of the people of Zimbabwe, citizens, visitors and residents alike,” she said.
“As the nation enters the final lap of the shared Vision 2030, we are clear of the overall expectation that an empowered and prosperous upper middle-income economy requires strong foundations anchored on a safe and secure environment. Today’s reaffirmation of our covenant is a step towards the fortification of such foundations.”
Comm Phiri said she was aware of the disgruntlements of members of the public because of misconduct from some members of the police force. She said this has caused a deterioration in the trust between the police and the public.
“I may liken it to a village well that is renowned for vibrancy, but has begun to silt up,” she said.
Comm Phiri said by relaunching its Service Charter, the police force is committing to restoring trust in the public. She urged members of the public to report rogue police officers and to freely air their concerns.
“We promise you professionalism, where the police officer you meet will not only be defined by their uniform, but also by their integrity, respect, and commitment to justice. We promise you swiftness, where prompt, and reliable responses with clear timelines will be our guiding principle,” she said.
“We are reinvigorating our policing impetus through unwavering efficiency and a professional standard that serves all our clients. We promise you transparency, giving you the right to a reference number, the right to follow up and the right to feedback.
This is the standard and our promise to you.”
Comm Phiri said the community can help the police in creating a safe and secure society and urged members of the public to join community policing initiatives as they play a crucial role in fighting crime. She also urged communities to report crime and to desist from protecting criminals.
