adminMarvelous Moyo Gwanda Correspondent
POLICE in Matabeleland South have expressed concern over the increase in violent crimes in the province. In a statement, the provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Philisani Ndebele, said cases of murder, rape, assault and robbery increased sharply in the last months of 2014. “For example, in the month of December 2014 alone, the province recorded a total of 11 murder cases compared to four cases recorded in the previous year. What’s disturbing is that most cases are ignited by trivialities,” he said.
Insp Ndebele said cases of assault also increased in December 2014 with 166 cases recorded compared to 155 cases recorded during the same period the previous year. On Christmas Day, Gwanda district alone recorded 12 assault cases.
Police analysis of cases revealed that most cases occurred while people were drinking beer at bottle stores.
Insp Ndebele said the province also recorded high cases of rape and juveniles were the most targeted.
“In the year 2014, the province recorded a total of 246 (rape) cases compared to 202 cases received in the year 2013 and the main culprits are close relatives,” he said. “Armed robbery cases marginally decreased in 2014 as nine cases were recorded compared to 12 recorded in 2013. However plain robbery cases increased from 265 cases recorded in the year 2013 to 282 cases recorded in 2014.”
Insp Ndebele said most robberies occur in Beitbridge and urged travellers to use public transport as robbers preyed on those who hitch hike.
“Robbers target unsuspecting motorists while others are themselves motorists who pretend to offer lifts to travellers and later rob them of their valuables,” said Insp Ndebele.
He urged members of the public to desist from resorting to violence to solve disputes.
Insp Ndebele said people should not move around with dangerous weapons.
Online Reporter