Mathew Masinge
Arron Nyamayaro
POLICE have been ordered to be equal to the task against armed robbers targeting schools and churches around Westgate, Marlborough and Mabelreign.
Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, who is the officer commanding Harare province, has ordered police officers assigned to round up the robbers without delay.
He said no effort will be spared until these criminals are brought to justice.
“I expect results, and I trust you will deliver. Good work will be rewarded, but inaction and failure will not be tolerated.
“To our officers on the ground: it is fire for fire,” said Comm Chikunguru.
He said Mabelreign community is under attack, criminals are operating in this area and they are robbing homes, schools, churches and becoming bolder with each passing day.
He noted with concern the suspects who recently carried out a robbery at a local private education institution, where over US$30,000 was stolen.
In addition, several homes, schools and properties in this community have been targeted. Property worth thousands of dollars has been stolen.
“These criminals are not always armed with guns. They use crowbars, iron bars, and stones. They scale precast-walls, attack security guards, and use whatever they find within the premises.
“In some cases, guards are tied up using shoelaces, wires, or other materials, and their phones are taken. This matter has escalated to a point where lives are now at risk.
“As the police, we want to assure residents that this matter is receiving full attention.
“There is deep concern at command level, and decisive action is already underway. Patrols have been increased. Stop-and-search operations have been intensified.
“Police visibility has been enhanced across all affected areas.
“There is strong reason to believe that the suspects may be residing within this community.
“As investigations close in, cooperation from residents is essential. We are urging you to help identify them.
“Report any suspicious individuals or unusual activities in your neighborhood. Swift reporting is critical,” he said.
Comm Chikunguru urged residents to report to Mabelreign Police Station on 0242 305 651 or Harare Operations on 0242 748 836 saying all information will be treated with strict confidentiality.
“Let me emphasize this clearly, hiding, harboring, supporting, or failing to report criminals is a serious offence.
“The law will take its course against anyone involved.
“Those who protect criminals will face the same consequences as the offenders.
“Unity within the community is now critical. We are urging you to form and actively participate in Neighborhood Watch Committees in every street and every corner of Mabelreign.
“These committees are effective. They promote vigilance. They improve communication.
“They allow quick sharing of information. They help monitor movements and coordinate responses.
“When neighbors know each other and look out for one another, criminals find it difficult to operate. A united community is a strong defense against crime,” said Comm Chikunguru.
He urged the community to strengthen their own security, staying alert at all times and not open gates to strangers.
“Do not leave gates open unnecessarily. Avoid keeping large sums of money at homes.
“Ensure your security guards are vigilant. Employ trained and vetted personnel. Where possible, use armed security. Make sure guards are on duty and alert at all times.
“Do not leave dangerous objects lying around. These can be used as weapons against you. “Strengthen your home security. Use guard dogs, electric fencing, proper exterior lighting, and alarm systems. Close all weak points. Do not take chances with your safety.
“If you are confronted by armed robbers, do not retaliate. Do not resist. Your life is more important than property. Property can be replaced. Life cannot,” said Comm Chikunguru.
He asked for community understanding as operations intensify promising them to see more police presence.
“There will be more patrols, roadblocks, and stop-and-search activities. At times, this may be uncomfortable.
“However, these measures are necessary and temporary. They are meant to restore safety and order.
“Fear must not divide this community. It must bring people together.
“It must strengthen cooperation between residents and the police. With unity, vigilance, and timely reporting, these criminals will be brought to justice.
“Finally, let me say this to all of us—residents, leaders, and officers alike: this is not just a police fight, and it is not just a community concern.
“It is a shared responsibility. Crime thrives where people are silent, divided, or afraid. But it collapses where people stand together, speak together, and act together.
“Let us stand as one community. Alert in mind. Firm in action. United in purpose. Together, we will reclaim safety. Together, we will restore peace. And together, we will ensure that Mabelreign is a place where dignity and security prevail,” said Comm Chikunguru.
Westgate, Marlborough, Good Hope and Mabelreign community members gathered at Mabelreign Shopping Centre where police assured them safety and visibility.
Online Reporter