Peter Matika [email protected]
POLICE have warned members of the public against resorting to violence when resolving disputes, saying violent conduct not only endangers lives but also threatens peace and security in communities.
The warning comes amid concerns over violent crimes, including murder, assault and other attacks, with the police urging individuals to exercise restraint and seek lawful ways of resolving disagreements rather than taking the law into their own hands.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged Zimbabweans to resolve their differences amicably and desist from taking the law into their own hands, warning that violence has devastating consequences for individuals, families and communities.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges members of the public to resolve disputes amicably and refrain from resorting to violence,” he said.
His warning comes against the background of violent incidents involving domestic disagreements, family conflicts and confrontations in public places, some of which have resulted in loss of life.
In one of the disturbing incidents reported by police, two brothers died following a violent altercation arising from a dispute over a funeral parlour membership pamphlet in Nyamandlovu.
Preliminary investigations indicated that an argument erupted after one brother accused the other of intending to join Satanism after receiving the pamphlet.
During the altercation, one of the brothers allegedly struck the other several times on the head with a log.
The injured man was reportedly offered shelter by a friend but was found dead the following day, while his brother was also subsequently found dead under a tree, with bruises all over his body.
The incident highlighted the potentially fatal consequences of disputes that could otherwise be resolved through dialogue.
Police have also raised concern over violent crimes arising from domestic disputes, particularly cases involving couples and family members.
In September, Comm Nyathi expressed concern over murder, attempted murder and suicide cases involving couples and relatives, urging families to seek counselling and resolve their differences peacefully.
Among the incidents reported was a case in Zhombe, where a 23-year-old woman allegedly poisoned her two young sons before ingesting the same substance following a misunderstanding with her husband over allegations of infidelity.
The two children, aged six and nine, died upon admission to Kwekwe District Hospital, while their mother was admitted in a critical condition.
“In another incident in Mukumbura, a 50-year-old man allegedly struck his wife with an axe following a misunderstanding over allegations of infidelity, killing her before fleeing the scene,” said Comm Nyathi.
He said police have also intensified efforts to curb violent crimes involving dangerous weapons, particularly knives and machetes, which are increasingly being carried into public spaces.
“In May, police launched Operation No to Knives in Pockets, targeting people carrying dangerous weapons in public places as part of efforts to curb murder, attempted murder and robbery,” said Comm Nyathi.
He said the operation was prompted by concerns over criminal elements carrying knives, machetes and other dangerous weapons, particularly around liquor outlets, nightclubs, mining settlements and residential areas.
He noted that petty disputes in such environments often escalated into serious acts of violence.
Comm Nyathi urged members of the public to cooperate with police officers during stop-and-search exercises and report individuals found carrying dangerous weapons.
Police have also encouraged couples and families experiencing domestic challenges to seek counselling and involve trusted third parties, including traditional leaders, church leaders and professional counsellors.
“Members of the public are urged to report threats, suspected criminal activities and violent incidents at their nearest police station rather than attempting to retaliate or settle scores themselves,” he said.
The police have reiterated that maintaining peace and security requires cooperation between law enforcement authorities and communities, with citizens encouraged to play an active role in preventing crime.
