Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
MORE than 200 butcheries, and 125 food outlets, have been closed nationwide as police intensify operations against those involved in stock theft.
In a statement, police national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said officers have since recovered 43 cattle, 35 goats, 13 donkeys, one pig and 54 chickens.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police refers to the press release issued on 28 April 2026 regarding the nationwide operation code-named ‘Batai Mbavha Dzemombe Nembudzi’ (or ‘Flash Out Cattle and Goat Rustlers, Bambani Amasela Ezinkomo Lembuzi’), targeting stock theft and the illegal sale of meat.
“The police have intensified the operation across the country.
“Since its launch, 415 suspects have been arrested in connection with stock theft cases, while 2,997 others have been apprehended for related violations.”
Comm Nyathi said the arrests include people operating without valid licences for butcheries, illegal meat vending, failure to produce stock movement permits, failure to maintain stock registers, and contraventions of public health and veterinary regulations.
He said the operation has also resulted in the closure of several non-compliant business premises, including 205 butcheries and 125 food outlets.
Comm Nyathi called for continued public cooperation, saying members of the public should report any suspicious movement of livestock or meat to the nearest police station.
