Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo in NTABAZINDUNA
THE Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) has warned its officers against partaking in corruption and drug abuse, saying those found doing so will face severe consequences.
The warning was delivered by ZPCS Commissioner-General Dr Moses Chihobvu at the graduation ceremony for 615 students at Ntabazinduna Training School.
Any officer found flouting the organisation’s principles of moral and professional uprightness, he said, will be punished.
Comm-Gen Chihobvu described corruption as a cancerous threat that must be completely eradicated from the institution.
“Let me take this opportunity to address two critical threats to the integrity of our organisation, substance abuse and corruption. I want to make it abundantly clear that these have no place in the ZPCS,” he said.
Comm-Gen Chihobvu said the misuse of drugs and alcohol undermined one’s health, compromised operational safety and eroded public confidence, adding that equally, corruption was a cancer that must be eliminated at all costs.
“Whether it involves misappropriation of stores, trafficking of contraband or abuse of authority, corruption damages the very core of our mission statement. Any officer found engaging in such misconduct will face swift and decisive disciplinary and legal consequences,” said Comm Gen Chihobvu.
He said that as the organisation embraces modern technologies to improve operational efficiency, there is need for diligence, caution and responsibility.
He said technology is a powerful tool, but it is not a substitute for human judgment, vigilance or accountability.
“From digital communication systems to data management and surveillance tools, we must ensure that all innovations are deployed in a manner that enhances, not compromises, our security, ethics and professionalism. The misuse of technology for personal gain, gossip, or sabotage will not be tolerated. Let us embrace innovation but with discipline, prudence and respect for organisational protocol,” said Comm Gen Chihobvu.
The students undertook courses in conversion (111 students), supervisory management (103), basic internal police (94) and basic security/intelligence (124), special weapons and tactics (79), as well as stores management (104).
Comm Gen Chihobvu congratulated the graduates, saying their successful completion of the programmes is not only a personal achievement, but also a contribution to the collective advancement of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service.
“I am aware that you have undergone intellectually and physically demanding training, anchored in subjects that reflect both regional and international guidelines and standards,” said Comm Gen Chihobvu.
Speaking at the same event, Ntabazinduna Training School Commandant, Commissioner Doreen Shoko revealed that a total of 15 students dropped out due to various reasons.
She said staff development is the backbone of every organisation as it enables employees to acquire knowledge, new skills, enhance their performance and also drive organisational growth and success.
“As a training institution, we remain steadfast to our mandate of capacitating the school in enhancing infrastructure, mordernising curricula and fostering a culture of continuous learning. The success of these graduates is testament to what can be achieved when training is prioritised and aligned with the organisational strategic objectives,” said Comm Shoko.
Charles Duri