Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura-Mutare Bureau
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified its crime prevention awareness campaign in Manicaland Province, urging learners to reject drugs and substance abuse, bullying, child marriage and cybercrime as part of efforts to build safer schools and communities.
The campaign seeks to educate young people about the legal, social and health consequences of engaging in criminal activities while encouraging them to make responsible life choices.
Chipinge District is a drug hotspot which is used as a transit point by smugglers bringing in illegal drugs from Mozambique, while child marriages are still rampant as perpetrators flee with underage girls to Mozambique to avoid arrest.
Speaking at New Horizon College and Chipinge Secondary School, the Officer Commanding Chipinge District, Chief Superintendent Edmore Kelosi, told learners that drug and substance abuse remains a growing concern that fuels violence, school dropouts and other criminal activities.
“Our nation is moving forward under Vision 2030. However, that vision will remain nothing if our most precious resource, the youths are destroyed by making reckless choices before they reach adulthood,” Chief Supt Kelosi said.
He said the biggest threat targeting the young generation is drugs.
“Some of your peers might tell you that taking these substances make you look ‘cool’ or that it helps to handle stress. That is a dangerous lie.
“Drugs multiply problems. They destroy your brain, spark severe mental health challenges, ruin your mental health and force you out of school. If you are caught dealing, carrying or using drugs, you will be arrested. A single criminal record means your dreams of becoming a doctor, a lawyer, an engineer or a pilot vanish instantly,” Chief Supt Kelosi said.
Schools, he said, must be havens for learning, not battlefields.
Chief Supt Kelosi also warned the learners against indulging in sexual activities.
