Vusumuzi Dube
Peter Matika, [email protected]
Private security company Safeguard has raised concerns over a recent surge in criminal activities across the country.
According to its latest report, the company noted that crime increased by 27 percent between January and March this year compared to the same period last year.
The report stated that in the past two months, violent crimes almost doubled, with an average of six intruders per incident.
“Fuel stations and industrial sites remain vulnerable to violent crime and attacks on cash. In Bulawayo, incidents of violence were high, with shoot-outs being reported between perpetrators and law enforcement agents. In March 2025, a law enforcement officer and six armed robbers were fatally shot in separate shoot-outs in Bulawayo,” reads the report.
The report noted that criminals continue to target power cables and transformers, with more incidents reported in residential areas.
“In other incidents that did not occur at Safeguard sites, verified sources indicate a prevalence of both break-ins and robberies at vulnerable residences and businesses that keep money and other valuables on site. Fraud has also been reported as employees take advantage of weak systems to steal cash from businesses,” read the report.
An analysis of the nationwide crime statistics from the last quarter, according to the company, revealed that there is a surge in criminal activity, with notable increases in both cases of assault and property crimes.
“Uncertainty, loss of jobs, drug abuse among others are contributing to an upsurge in crime. We are also seeing an increase in opportunistic crime, possibly linked to the difficult economic environment and job losses.
“It is now necessary to be more informed on the activity in your area and to familiarise yourself with the various security systems so you can equip your residence and workplace.”
The company advised the public on measures to avoid criminal incidents.
“Do not keep cash on site, and if you do, make sure that it is well protected. Our fogging systems are an excellent final layer of defence for cash and valuables.
“Protect Zesa transformers with physical barriers, and small alarm and response.
“The latter is important to give early warning of tamper to barriers. It is essential for the neighbourhood representative to take charge and understand the alerts that come from the alarm system.”
“Lock up early and make use of your security systems. Make sure that your security control systems are well protected from tampering by staff or intruders,” read the report.
Online Reporter