Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
Police have urged residents to stay alert, report early, and reduce opportunities for criminals.
On Saturday police intensified community policing in several low- and middle-density suburbs, focusing on the fight against armed robberies that have targeted businesspeople.
Superintendent Juliana Masawi, responsible for the Harare Suburban District, led Police Community Relations Liaison Officers (CLOs) and members of Crime Liaison Committees in Rhodesville, Msasa, Highlands, Borrowdale, Mabelreign, Marlborough, Avondale, and New Parliament Building.
Superintendent Juliana Masawi
As part of the campaign, Supt Masawi encouraged residents to build direct communication with police and distributed contact numbers of officers in charge at various stations.
“We are here to bridge the gap between the community and police,” said Supt Masawi. “Gone are the days when mothers threaten their children by mentioning police officers. We want every child and every adult to feel free to talk to police, visit stations, and keep officers’ contacts close.”
She said some people continued to have unanswered concerns because they feared approaching senior officers.
“Our Commissioner-General, Stephen Mutamba, operates an open-door policy,” Supt Masawi said.
“If there is anyone among you who feels your case was not handled properly by officers investigating, please approach the Officer-in-Charge of that station. If you are still not assisted, you can engage Officer Commanding the Province, Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, and I assure you that you will be attended to.”
Supt Masawi also urged residents to protect themselves by avoiding illicit drugs and not leaving bottle stores and bars late.
“Let us not retire to bed under the influence of drugs and substances,” she said. “Robbers are targeting your wealth – your hard-earned money.”
She warned residents against carrying large amounts of cash, encouraging the use of plastic money and internet banking instead.
Inspector Georgina Mofolo, who oversees operations at Borrowdale Police Station, said Hatcliffe had registered the highest number of criminal cases.
Insp Mofolo said many incidents were linked to drug and substance abuse, adding that police were now prioritising community engagement to break the cycle.
She also cautioned residents about “Mikando” schemes – where groups collect money and promise to share it after an agreed time.
“Some members disappear with the money, and those duped later report to police,” Insp Mofolo said.
“Avoid such schemes, especially where proper written agreements are not in place, because criminals take advantage of people.”
Insp Mofolo further urged parents and guardians to protect children, saying rape cases involving neighbours and relatives remained disturbing.
“Rape cases must be reported quickly – for the victim’s assistance and to preserve evidence for successful prosecution,” she said.
She warned against enabling harmful practices, including early marriages, and said guardians who exploit children for money would face the law.
Crime Liaison Committee chairperson Eyahra Mathazia of Avondale commended police visibility, saying it contributed to reducing crime.
“We have been experiencing sleepless nights due to armed robberies around Avondale, Mabelreign and up to Westgate,” Mathazia said. “But police visibility has helped, and the crime rate has dropped by almost 80 percent.”
District Crime Liaison Committee chairperson Awudi urged the public to partner with police through Crime Liaison Committees, the Christian Community Police Network, Neighbourhood Watch Committees and police Junior Calls.
