Online Reporter
Freedom Mupanedemo, Midlands Bureau
POLICE in Kwekwe are intensifying efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, with a growing number of arrests being made and several notorious drug bases shut down. Dealers are now facing the full force of the law as authorities crack down on the illegal trade. Members of the public are being urged to fully co-operate to ensure the success of the ongoing operation, code-named “No to Dangerous Drugs and Illicit Substances”, which is being conducted across the district.
So far, police have seized over 110 kilogrammes of marijuana, crystal meth and bronclear, and have arrested more than 110 individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal drug trade and the distribution of illicit substances.
The operation has also uncovered that many of these substances are being smuggled into the country using increasingly sophisticated methods to evade detection by police and other law enforcement agents.
The Government has declared war on drugs and has adopted a multi-sectoral approach that includes law enforcement, education, and public health initiatives under the National Drug Abuse Elimination Strategy. In line with this, police are working in collaboration with other stakeholders to conduct educational outreach programmes aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
In an interview, Officer Commanding Kwekwe District, Chief Superintendent Ison Chapeta, expressed satisfaction with the progress made in rooting out drug users and peddlers in the area.
“We went head-on with the dealers and users, and the results have been impressive. We have arrested over 110 people and recovered dangerous drugs and substances from bases,” he said.
“We have been to bases in Redcliff town, in Amaveni and Mbizo suburbs as well as the Central Business District. The dealers and buyers are now fully aware that we mean business when it comes to protecting our youths from drug and substance abuse.”
Chief Supt Chapeta added that following the initial raids, police returned to the identified bases and found them abandoned.
“We went back to the said drug and substance bases and found them deserted. If there are new bases, rest assured, we will find them and arrest the perpetrators,” he said. “We are not resting until we contain this scourge that is becoming a national threat.”
Chief Supt Chapeta said police are now aware of the tactics used by dealers to hide drugs and substances.
He however acknowledged that the operations are becoming more covert but said police were working hard to ensure they stay ahead.
