Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, Zimpapers Reporter
A police operation aimed at restoring law and order during the festive season has led to the arrest of 112 suspects facing various charges in Bulilimamangwe District, Matabeleland South Province.
The festive season often sees a rise in crime as people gather for holiday celebrations, which can sometimes become sources of conflict.
This comes as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has expressed concern over a spate of violent crimes in the district, prompting the law enforcement agency to launch campaigns to curb the situation and ensure peace and order.
Police Officer Commanding Bulilimamangwe District, Chief Superintendent Cabinet Thomas, said officers would be fully deployed on the ground throughout the festive season.
“There has been an increase in violent crime in the district in recent days. Crimes such as assault, robbery and murder have traumatised the community. After a thorough analysis of the pattern, police launched an operation targeting hotspot areas, particularly mining locations. Between December 9 and 15, 2025, an operation dubbed Chikorokoza Ngachipere was conducted in the Matobo mining area,” he said.
Chief Supt Thomas said the operation followed an influx of illegal miners in the area, worsened by the arrival of operators of illegally constructed khanandos (makeshift kitchens and tuck shops) selling liquor and groceries without licences.
“Unregistered transport operators (mushikashika) also contributed to the chaos in the affected Matobo area. The purpose of the operation was to address the ills that have led to the loss of precious lives and property.
“During the operation, 112 arrests were made. These included three suspects charged with attempted murder (armed with machetes), illegal miners, individuals in possession of explosives and fuses, those found with dangerous drugs and violators of the Liquor Act, Shop Licences Act, Public Health Act, as well as pirate transport operators,” he said.
He added that 18 unlicensed vehicles were impounded and later cleared upon meeting the required operating procedures. Some of the accused have already appeared in court.
“Such operations will continue to ensure the area remains under control. We appeal to members of the affected communities to report crime promptly for speedy investigations. As we are already in the festive period, we urge people to behave responsibly and respect the sanctity of human life and each other’s rights,” said Chief Supt Thomas.
He also warned motorists to drive safely and observe the country’s traffic regulations.
“Police deployments are in full force across the district. Meanwhile, a festive season crime awareness campaign has been conducted to educate the community on proactive safety measures,” he said.—@themkhust
