Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, Zimpapers Business Hub
POLICE have managed to recover about US$15 million of the US$64,4 million stolen through armed robberies, a Cabinet Minister has said.
Speaking during the 2026 Pre-Budget Seminar in Bulawayo, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe said despite limited resources due to delayed disbursements of Treasury allocations, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has managed to recover part of the money stolen in a spate of armed robberies around the country.
Minister Kazembe stated that the ministry was allocated ZWG3,9 billion for the 2025 budget — only 18 percent of the requested ZWG17,8 billion—resulting in crippled service delivery across departments.
The Minister highlighted challenges police officers face in holding communities accountable, as they often depend on them for support.
“How can a police officer deal with a person breaking traffic rules, the same person who provided them with transport going to work,” he said.
Minister Kazembe also urged the Government to prioritise equipping the forensic department, noting that the country sends samples to Botswana and South Africa, which delays processes.
“Let’s invest about US$80-US$100 million in this facility, to fast track cases and hold perpetrators accountable,” said Minister Kazembe.
The 2026 Pre-Budget Seminar concluded in Bulawayo yesterday.
