The recognition of 44 police officers at the Midlands Province 2025 Quarterly and Annual Awards for Excellence in Policing is a welcome development that deserves commendation.
At a time when communities continue to grapple with serious crimes, including murder, rape, armed robbery, fraud and stock theft, celebrating officers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their duties sends an important message: dedication, professionalism and integrity in law enforcement must never go unnoticed.
The outstanding achievements highlighted at the awards ceremony demonstrate that effective policing is not merely about wearing a uniform or occupying an office. It is about commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding property, upholding the law and ensuring that criminals are brought to justice. The examples of Constable David Pikurayi, Assistant Inspector Charity Ncube and
Sergeant Kizito Mahachi illustrate the difference that determined, competent and professional officers can make in society.
Const Pikurayi’s arrest of a murder suspect hiding in the thick bushes of Gokwe is particularly
remarkable. After receiving information about the murder of Lucia Mpofu, he immediately took
steps to mobilise contacts in surrounding villages to help locate the alleged perpetrator. When
information eventually emerged about the suspect’s whereabouts, the officer did not allow the fact
that he was off duty or lacked company to discourage him. He walked approximately eight
kilometres into the bush, tracked down the suspect and effected an arrest.
Such determination demonstrates the commitment expected of members of the Zimbabwe Republic
Police (ZRP). However, his actions also highlight the need for adequate operational support and
resources to ensure that officers can perform their duties safely. Courage is commendable, but
policing should never depend on individual officers exposing themselves to unnecessary danger. The institution must equip its personnel with the necessary tools, transport, communication
systems and backup arrangements to respond effectively to criminal activity.
Equally deserving of recognition is Asst Insp Ncube, whose persistence led to the arrest of a man
accused of sexually abusing three young sisters. Crimes against children are particularly disturbing
because they target some of the most vulnerable members of society. Children deserve protection,
and perpetrators must face the full consequences of their actions.
Her determination to follow leads across villages and pursue the suspect when he attempted to
escape demonstrates the importance of taking reports of sexual abuse seriously and pursuing
investigations until justice is secured. The resulting conviction and 90-year prison sentence reinforce the principle that sexual violence against children cannot be tolerated.
The work of Sgt Mahachi further illustrates the importance of thorough investigations and
evidence-based policing. His investigations exposed fraudulent land documents, stock theft
schemes and a cattle-theft syndicate operating across communities. In particular, the recovery of
stolen beef and related evidence, followed by the successful prosecution of the suspects,
demonstrates how intelligence gathering, attention to detail and collaboration can disrupt
organised criminal activities.
Stock theft remains a serious concern in many rural communities, where cattle are not simply
commercial assets but a source of livelihood, wealth and social security. The theft of livestock
undermines agricultural productivity, impoverishes farming households and threatens food
security. Equally concerning is the illegal slaughter and sale of stolen cattle, which can expose
consumers to meat of uncertain origin and undermine legitimate businesses.
The successful investigations by Sgt Mahachi should therefore serve as an example of the importance of strengthening intelligence-led policing, particularly in rural areas where criminal networks can exploit vast geographical spaces.
Citizens must feel comfortable reporting crimes and providing information without fear of intimidation, victimisation or indifference. The relationship between the police and the public should be built on mutual respect, cooperation and a shared commitment to maintaining peace and security.
Asst Comm Matambo’s observation that policing is not a one-man job is particularly significant. Indeed, the fight against crime requires a collective approach involving the police, traditional leaders, local authorities, businesses, civil society and ordinary citizens. Community members are often the first to notice suspicious activities and can provide valuable information that helps prevent crimes or identify perpetrators.
The awards also provide an opportunity to reflect on the importance of motivating police officers. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that often requires personnel to work long hours, operate under difficult conditions and confront dangerous situations. Recognising exceptional performance helps boost morale, encourages healthy competition and reinforces a culture of accountability and excellence.
The support extended by the private sector, particularly Cembee Group of Companies and River Valley Properties, is also commendable. Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube’s contribution of US$2 200 towards the awards further demonstrates the value of partnerships between Government and business in supporting public institutions.
Furthermore, Minister Ncube’s call for officers to shun corruption must remain central to the policing agenda. Corruption within law enforcement undermines public trust, compromises investigations and allows criminals to evade justice. No amount of bravery or professional achievement can compensate for misconduct, abuse of authority or the betrayal of public confidence.
The police must therefore maintain the highest standards of honesty, discipline, impartiality and respect for human rights.
Officers should understand that they are public servants entrusted with considerable authority, which must always be exercised responsibly and within the law.
Ultimately, the recognition of the 44 Midlands police officers should not be viewed as an end in itself but as a foundation upon which greater achievements can be built. Their examples demonstrate that professionalism, courage and commitment produce tangible results.
The challenge now is to replicate such excellence across all police districts and provinces. Every community deserves officers who are willing to go the extra mile, investigate diligently, act without fear or favour and serve with integrity.
When the police do their work professionally, communities become safer, businesses operate with greater confidence and citizens enjoy greater peace of mind.
Indeed, the best reward for outstanding policing is not merely an award or a prize, but a safer society in which every citizen can live, work and prosper without fear of crime.
