Online Reporter
Ronald Mpofu [email protected]
HUNDREDS of Plumtree residents gathered at Dingumuzi Bus Terminus on Friday to witness the relaunch of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) client service charter in Plumtree.
The programme was held under the theme: “Your Safety, Our Priority.”
The event began with a road march from Plumtree School gate to Dingumuzi Bus Terminus. It was led by police officers and featured Grade Seven learners from Dingulwazi Primary School, learners and staff from Phakamani High School, and the Ntabazinduna Police Band. The procession ended at the venue where residents were entertained by music legend and rhumba icon
Clement Magwaza. Applause erupted as the marching team arrived, adding energy to the occasion.
The relaunch drew a wide cross-section of the community, including members of the Joint Operations Command, Plumtree JSC staff, immigration officials, school heads, learners, ZB Bank officials, local stakeholders, parents and children.
Also present was Chief Superintendent Cabinet Thomas, Officer Commanding Bulilima-Mangwe District.
In his keynote address, Chief Inspector George Milisi, Officer-in-Charge of Plumtree Police Station, highlighted a rise in crime, particularly unlawful entry and theft, and noted that just before the relaunch, Dingumuzi Shopping Centre recorded three cases of unlawful entry and theft.
“We are relaunching this Client Service Charter at a time when our policing area is battling an increase in unlawful entry and theft cases perpetrated at both residential and business premises,” said Chief Insp Milisi.
Given Plumtree’s position on the Zimbabwe-Botswana border, he also raised concerns about drug trafficking and smuggling.
“It’s disturbing to note that cases of drug trafficking, drug abuse, and smuggling have been rampant. May I forewarn criminals that the long arm of the law will catch up with them. I also advise our business community to harden target areas to make them impossible to penetrate,” he said.
On road safety, Chief Insp Milisi stressed that it remains everyone’s responsibility and urged motorists to avoid speeding, reckless overtaking, overloading, driving under the influence, and using unroadworthy vehicles.
He also warned that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses serious risks to pedestrians, passengers and drivers, adding that breathalysers are now being used to apprehend drink-drivers, calling it a smart policing tool in the fight against substance abuse.
“As the nation enters the final lap of Vision 2030, we are clear that an empowered and prosperous upper middle-income economy requires strong foundations anchored on a safe and secure environment.
“Today’s reaffirmation of our covenant is a step towards fortifying those foundations,” he said.
Residents were encouraged to approach police without fear, as the station environment is friendly and accommodative.
In addition, business owners were urged to secure stock and assets, while all residents were asked to report suspicious activity early to aid investigations.
Mr Timothy Khupe, chairman of the businesses’ anti-stock theft committee in Bulilima-Mangwe, echoed the call for community involvement.
“Let us protect our property through proper record-keeping and securing it. The first police officer is you. This makes it easy when you report a break-in. Don’t hesitate to report to the police. If we work together, we will reduce crime rates,” he said.
Residents were also urged to report drug dealers, as drugs continue to damage young people who are expected to lead in the future.
