Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
POLICE in Bulawayo say teamwork with residents has turned the tide in the city’s war on drugs, leading to over a thousand arrests since January.
Officer Commanding Bulawayo Province, Commissioner Jasper Chizemo, said police operations guided by public tip-offs had helped dismantle drug networks and send notorious dealers to jail. His speech was read on his behalf by Assistant Commissioner Tambudzai Gumpo during a police-churches anti-drug awareness campaign at Pumula North Hall on Saturday.
“From January to September 2025, we made 1 032 arrests, including 172 drug lords and suppliers. Ten drug bases were destroyed,” said Comm Chizemo.
He hailed residents for their vigilance, citing community-driven busts in Entumbane that led to the arrest and conviction of infamous peddlers.
“We pounced and destroyed a drug base in Entumbane which saw dealer Elton Ndlovu sent to prison, compliments of the Entumbane community. We also sent to prison Gary Bell, a notorious drug dealer who was a menace in the city,” he said.
Comm Chizemo said another dealer, Pigory Tryron, was caught with over 1,2 kg of crystal meth concealed in a fake dictionary safe, allegedly destined for school children.
He expressed concern over a spike in crime among youths aged 13 and above, linking the trend to drug abuse.
“Robbery, domestic violence, sexual offences and murder are among the cases we receive — most of them motivated by drug abuse,” said Comm Chizemo.
He stressed that the police remain firmly focused on the “supply and reduction pillar” under the national anti-drug task force, working hand-in-hand with communities, churches and other partners.
