Online Reporter
Ronald Mpofu,Sunday News Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) last Friday commissioned the new Bulilima-Mangwe District Headquarters offices in Plumtree town.
The project, which was initiated in 2015 but was delayed by several other urgent activities within the station, such as building an ablution block and a Gender-Based Violence Victim Centre.
Speaking at the commissioning, police officer commanding Matabeleland South province, Commissioner Stephen Kazingizi, revealed that the construction of the District Headquarters (DHQ) was made possible through contributions from the Crime Liaising Committee and stakeholders and the community.
“Bulilima-Mangwe policing district is distinguished as one of the hardest-hit districts, where some sections are still using temporary field accommodations that have outlived their 15-year lifespan. The construction of this district headquarters, a brainchild of the community to satisfy organisational needs, is a call for improved service delivery from the police.
“This dedication comes at a time when the Zimbabwe Republic Police, as an internal security arm, is obligated to create a safe and secure environment across all 14 national priority areas in the National Development Strategy 1,” said Commissioner Kazingizi.
He urged everyone to maintain the building’s appearance and even improve it with modern aesthetics.
“As we strive towards attaining Vision 2030, initiated by His Excellency, the President, Head of State and Government, and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Comrade Dr ED Mnangagwa, of a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society by 2030, greater police and public participation is non-negotiable in the policy arena.
“Hence, our theme this year resonated well with the construction of the ZRP Bulilima Mangwe District Headquarters. As we strive for excellence in policing, we pursue a peaceful and secure Zimbabwe for all by 2025,” said Commissioner Kazingizi.
The provincial commanding officer revealed that the districts’ general crime statistics have dropped compared to the first six months of 2024 and the first six months of 2025, although there is a rise in rape and murder cases.
“We are noting a great concern that cases of rape are on the rise, both adults and juveniles. Also, cases of unlawful entry into premises, theft and attempted murder cases continue to rise in the district, with Madlambudzi taking the lead in murder cases,” he said.
Bulilima-Mangwe District Superintendent Rose Mangena expressed gratitude to the community for their contributions to the construction of the District Headquarters.
She also urged residents to join Police Crime Committees to help reduce crime in their homes and communities.
“Police Crime Committees go a long way in helping us combat crime in the district, let us all work together and ensure that we effectively reduce crime levels in our district,” said Sup. Mangena.
“We thank you, the community, for your assistance. Let us go out there and do our best to combat crime in this district,” she added.
