Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Ndlovu
Residents of Plumtree say they are living in fear following what they describe as a growing number of untreated individuals with mental health and intellectual disabilities who are allegedly roaming the community and attacking villagers, sparking renewed calls for government intervention.
Villagers told this publication that repeated appeals to local authorities and social welfare offices have gone unanswered, leaving families vulnerable and uncertain about their safety.
“We are not against these people,” said one elderly villager who asked not to be named. “But the situation has gone out of control. We are being attacked in our own homes and in the streets. We need help urgently.”
According to residents, the individuals involved allegedly assault passers-by, damage property and disrupt daily life, particularly during early mornings and evenings when people are travelling to and from work.
A mother of three described a recent incident that left the community shaken. “My children are now afraid to walk to school alone. You can be attacked without warning, and when you report, nothing happens,” she said.
Villagers singled out Malvern Dube, Lisani Nleya and Ndodana Ncube, whom they claim have, for several years, allegedly caused disturbances in the area. Residents say they have repeatedly reported their behaviour to authorities, but no lasting intervention has been implemented.
“This is not a new issue,” said another resident. “We have been raising concerns about these individuals for years. Sometimes they become violent, and we fear someone will be seriously injured or killed if nothing is done.
“If its not stealing people’s food, beating up people they also attack moving cars, its getting out of hand.”
Community members emphasised that their concern is not driven by hatred or discrimination, but by fear and frustration at the absence of structured mental-health support.
“We know this is an illness,” said a local community leader. “These people need proper care, not to be left wandering the streets. The government must take responsibility.”
Zimbabwe continues to face a severe shortage of mental-health facilities, professionals and rehabilitation centres, particularly in rural areas. Advocacy groups have repeatedly warned that untreated mental illness places both patients and communities at risk.
Residents are now calling on the Ministry of Health, social welfare departments and local authorities to intervene by providing medical assessments, safe rehabilitation facilities and long-term support.
“We are pleading for help before a tragedy happens,” said one villager. “This community deserves protection, and those suffering from mental illness deserve proper treatment.”
