Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Midlands Bureau
POLICE in Midlands Province have recorded 38 459 criminal cases between January and September this year, reflecting a slight decline from the 38 559 cases reported during the same period last year.
However, the province has seen an increase in serious crimes, including murder, robbery, rape and stock theft.
Addressing stakeholders during a provincial crime awareness campaign held at Cross Roads Business Centre in Silobela last week, Officer Commanding Midlands Province, Commissioner Patson Nyabadza, said murder cases stood at 124 this year, compared to 149 last year.
He noted that robbery cases had risen by 13 percent, increasing from 60 last year to 68 this year.
“According to the provincial crime statistics, from January to September 2024, the total number of recorded crimes was 38 559, while this year we have recorded 38 459, representing a decrease of approximately three percent,” he said.
Commissioner Nyabadza stated that adult rape cases had risen slightly from 163 last year to 165 this year, while juvenile rape cases had surged from 285 to 306 over the same period.
“We are concerned about the rise in juvenile rape cases, which have increased by seven percent. Last year, we recorded 633 cases of stock theft and this year, the figure stands at 684, indicating an eight percent increase,” he said.
Commissioner Nyabadza highlighted that crimes of major concern include murder, assault, armed robbery, drug and substance abuse, domestic violence, rape and stock theft — with Silobela among the most affected areas.
He observed that mining areas and business centres remain hotspots for murder, robbery and assault, while domestic violence, rape and stock theft are more prevalent within residential settings. He said drug and substance abuse continue to contribute to criminal behaviour and social decline.
“We must educate our youth about the dangers of substance abuse and provide support for those who are struggling. It is our responsibility to create an environment where healthy choices are promoted and accessible,” said Commissioner Nyabadza.
He warned that crime undermines national development and deters investment.
“We must support and safeguard livestock farming to grow the national herd. No investor is willing to invest in a country with high levels of crime, particularly against vulnerable groups such as women and children,” he said.
Commissioner Nyabadza also stressed the importance of community involvement in crime prevention efforts.
“Community leaders, educators, parents and young people must play an active role in this campaign by engaging in dialogue, sharing information, and participating in local initiatives. Let us cultivate a culture of vigilance,” he said.
He urged members of the public to take security precautions, including avoiding carrying large sums of cash and steering clear of isolated routes.
“Do not carry large amounts of money; only take what is needed for immediate use. Cash should not be kept at home or in offices for extended periods — it should be banked. If you are in possession of large sums of money, do not disclose this information.
Do not place your trust in anyone. Avoid dark alleys or shortcuts when walking; instead, use well-travelled roads or pathways,” he said.
Commissioner Nyabadza encouraged individuals and businesses to adopt modern security measures, including fog systems, controlled entry points, CCTV, video recorders, burglar bars and security fencing.
