Online Reporter
Peter Matika, Senior Reporter
POLICE in Bulawayo have called for stronger community involvement in fighting drug and substance abuse, warning that the scourge is fueling violence, theft, sexual offences and other forms of criminality.
Officer in Charge of Bulawayo Central Police Station, Chief Inspector Samkeliso Sibanda, has said the fight against crime could not be left to the police alone, urging residents, businesses, parents, churches, schools and community leaders to play an active role.
She was speaking on Saturday during a crime awareness campaign at the intersection of Fife Street and 5th Avenue held under the theme: “ZRP Bulawayo Central — Rallying Towards a Crime-Free Society.”
“Drug abuse is destroying lives, families and the future of our communities. Drugs don’t only affect the individual taking them. They contribute to violence, theft, disorder, sexual offences and other forms of criminality,” she said.
“Our message is simple: We’ll not surrender our young people to drugs. Don’t protect criminals through silence. If you know of premises or individuals involved in the distribution of dangerous drugs, report them to the police.”
Chief Insp Sibanda said motor vehicle theft and theft from vehicles were also a concern, particularly in the central business district where criminals could take advantage of poorly secured vehicles.
“Security cameras and adequate lighting are not luxuries. They are crime-prevention tools,” said Insp Sibanda.
“Bulawayo Central is not a haven for criminals. The police are watching, gathering intelligence and working with the community to identify and arrest offenders,” said Chief Insp Sibanda.
She said laptops, handbags, cellphones, cash and other valuables left inside vehicles were among items commonly targeted by thieves.
“Do not create an opportunity for a criminal. Prevention starts with each one of us,” she said.
Chief Insp Sibanda also warned residents about fraud, saying criminals were increasingly using false investment opportunities, bogus transactions, fake loan arrangements and impersonation to defraud unsuspecting victims.
“Think before you transfer money. Verify before you trust. Confirm before you sign. If an offer appears too good to be true, stop and investigate,” she said.
“The fact that a crime is committed through a cellphone, bank account or electronic platform does not make it invisible to the police.”
On sexual offences, Chief Insp Sibanda called for greater protection of women, children and other vulnerable members of society.
She urged families to create an environment where victims could safely report abuse and challenged communities to reject the culture of silence surrounding sexual offences.
“Talk to your children. Listen to them. Believe them. Protect them,” she said.
Insp Sibanda urged residents to embrace the campaign’s message: “See Something, Say Something,” while cautioning them against confronting suspected criminals themselves.
“Members of the public should not confront dangerous suspects themselves. Report suspicious activity to the police and allow trained officers to deal with it safely,” she said.
“The community is watching us. We must be professional, disciplined, visible, approachable and responsive. Every person who walks into a police station must be treated with dignity and given the full measure of service. Our uniform represents public trust.”
Chief Insp Sibanda said policing should increasingly focus on prevention through intelligence-led operations, visible patrols, targeted operations and sustained engagement with communities.
“The fight against crime cannot be won by the police alone. A safe Bulawayo requires the police, residents, business community, transport operators, traditional and community leaders, churches, schools, young people and every responsible citizen to work together,” she said.
Chief Insp Sibanda said the ultimate goal was to create a city where businesses could operate safely, families could live without fear and children could grow up in secure communities.
