Police warn school bullies

Arron Nyamayaro

THE officer commanding Harare province has issued a warning against bullying in schools, urging children to report any instances of physical, mental or sexual abuse. 

Speaking at the 33rd anniversary for Pinewood Junior and High Schools on Friday, Commissioner Wonder Tembo also implored parents to be vigilant against domestic violence and other criminal activities such as kidnapping and human trafficking. 

He also outlined a two-pronged approach to the fight against drug abuse, involving the arrest of suppliers and the use of campaigns to address the demand for drugs, and appealed to the public to provide law enforcement agencies with information to aid in their efforts.

“Every child has the right to learn in a free and conducive environment without the fear of being abused physically, mentally, sexually or anyhow by others,” said Comm Tembo.

“I urge you to report to the school authorities of any such bullying. Police are ever ready to come to your aid, should the situation demand.

“I would like to thank parents for desiring the best for your children. We are proud to hear that you parents are striving to be exemplary in everything you do.

“Shun even domestic violence which tends to bring emotional and physical trauma to your children,” he said.

Comm Tembo urged parents to watch out for criminally-minded people in society.

“Kidnapping, sexual abuse, ritual killings, human trafficking and other vices are now being reported across the country and beyond.

“Our children should not be victims of any of these. To this end, let’s join hands in the fight against crime,” he said.

He said police were working round the clock to curb drug abuse.

“Our plan is essentially two-prolonged; we intend, first, to eliminate the drug supply chain by arresting the supplier and then kill the demand for drugs through arrests and massive targeted anti-drug campaigns thus, rescuing our youths from the dilemma of drug abuse.

“I appeal to you all to take part in this noble fight, lest we lose the generation,” said Comm Tembo.