Woodlands Phase 2 gated community reshapes Gweru landscape

WOODLANDS Phase 2 is fast emerging as a modern residential development in Gweru, with the new gated community transforming the urban landscape in the Midlands capital through enhanced security infrastructure and controlled access.

The suburb is enclosed by a perimeter fence monitored around the clock by security personnel, in a development aimed at creating a safer and more secure environment for residents.

However, the project, which is being spearheaded by River Valley Group, has come under attack from vandals who have been stealing steel poles from the fence, compromising security in the area.

Police recently arrested Tichaona Mundanga (23) after he allegedly attempted to sell stolen fence poles.
He becomes the third suspect to be arrested in connection with vandalism targeting the development and has been remanded in custody.

River Valley Group’s security officer, Mr Derick Dube, condemned the acts of vandalism and said the company will continue working closely with police to bring offenders to book.

“Last week, Tichaona Musoka, a tenant at House Number 724 in Woodlands Phase One, was also detained after being tracked by security staff for allegedly cutting a portion of the fence to gain access to Phase Two,” he said.

Mr Dube said the company remains committed to protecting the investment and maintaining the integrity of the gated community.

He also commended residents for assisting in identifying and reporting suspected vandals, adding that cash rewards will continue to be offered for information leading to arrests.

The initiative is being viewed as a major step towards improving urban residential security.
River Valley Group’s chief executive officer, Dr Smelly Dube, said the development is the first gated community of its kind in Gweru and is expected to improve property values while offering privacy and exclusivity.

“We are constructing the first gated community of its kind in Gweru city. However, some vandals and suspected thieves feel threatened by this initiative as it encroaches on their illegal activities in the suburb,” she said.

Residents in the suburb said the gated concept is already helping to curb theft and unwanted movement in the area.

“Those cutting the fence are angry thieves who can no longer roam freely at night,” said resident Mrs Trinity Sibanda.

A gated community is a residential area enclosed by walls or fences with controlled entry, allowing access only to residents and approved visitors.