Online Reporter
Peter Matika and Rutendo Nyeve
POLICE have urged the public to remain vigilant during the festive season, warning of increased cases of housebreaking, theft, violent crime and road accidents as holiday travel peaks.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the Christmas and New Year holidays traditionally see a surge in property crimes, particularly when families leave their homes unattended while travelling to rural areas or holiday resorts.
“We are appealing to residents to exercise extreme caution during this festive season. Leaving homes unattended, especially for several days, creates an opportunity for criminals to break in, knowing very well that no one will be around to raise an alarm,” said Insp Msebele.
She expressed concern over the growing trend of people posting detailed travel plans on social media, describing it as “an open invitation to criminals”.
“People must understand that when they post pictures, videos or messages announcing that they are away on holiday, they are not only sharing with friends and family but also with criminals who are monitoring such platforms. Some syndicates rely heavily on social media to identify targets,” she said.
Insp Msebele advised residents to make adequate security arrangements before travelling, including asking trusted neighbours or relatives to check on their homes, securing doors and windows, and installing alarm systems where possible. She also urged homeowners to avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and to ensure perimeter walls, gates and locks are in good condition.
“Simple measures such as varying routines, using timers for lights, and stopping deliveries of newspapers or other items that may pile up and signal an empty house can go a long way in deterring criminals,” said Insp Msebele.
She encouraged communities to revive neighbourhood watch programmes and report suspicious movements promptly.
“The festive season should be a time of joy, not regret. We urge residents to work closely with the police and with each other to safeguard their homes and property. Crime prevention is a shared responsibility,” she said.
Meanwhile, in Matabeleland North, Officer Commanding the province, Police Commissioner Jealousy Nyabasa, issued similar warnings during the official launch of the 2025 Festive Season Awareness Campaign in Hwange on Friday.
“The festive season is upon us all and, as we know, festivities are associated with a lot of movement. Therefore, an increase in both vehicular and human traffic on our major roads should be anticipated,” he said.
Commissioner Nyabasa cautioned that crimes such as theft, unlawful entry, robbery, rape, domestic violence, murder and drug abuse often spike during the holidays.
“Travellers are usually subjected to unwarranted pressure and violence, and even lose their valuables such as cash and property to thieves masquerading as touts at bus termini,” he said.
He urged the public to avoid carrying large sums of money and to ensure homes are left in the care of responsible individuals. He also echoed warnings against oversharing travel plans online.
“Sometimes status updates on WhatsApp and Facebook can alert criminals about your movements, so be careful,” he said.
Turning to road safety, Commissioner Nyabasa appealed to motorists to strictly adhere to the Road Traffic Act.
“Please observe all rules and regulations. Use mechanically sound vehicles, avoid overloading, do not drink and drive, and never attempt to cross flooded rivers,” he said.
On drug abuse, he called on communities to remain vigilant.
“Say no to drugs and substance abuse. Parents must monitor their children closely and communities should report drug dealers,” he said.
He also warned of seasonal drowning incidents and urged parents to keep children away from unsupervised water bodies.
Police have intensified patrols across Bulawayo and Matabeleland North as part of festive season operations, but both officers stressed that community vigilance remains key.
“While we will continue to patrol and respond, residents must also play their part by being security conscious and not exposing themselves unnecessarily to crime,” said Insp Msebele.
Commissioner Nyabasa added:
“We are going to increase our deployments in all areas, including residential, industrial, business centres and on our highways. ZRP Matabeleland North Province takes this opportunity to wish you all a very happy festive season.”
