By Desire Tshuma
ESIGODINI — The Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified its nationwide crime awareness campaigns, using community gatherings and public spaces to promote public safety and strengthen police-community relations.
In Esigodini, police took advantage of the coronation of Chief Nomalanga Sigola in the Sigola area to conduct a crime awareness campaign that drew more than 2,000 people, including government officials, traditional leaders and members of the local community.
The event marked both a cultural milestone with the installation of a female traditional leader and a platform for law enforcement to engage citizens on crime prevention.
Police officers who addressed the gathering raised awareness on prevalent crimes in the area, particularly stock theft, murder, and drug and substance abuse, which have become a growing concern in Matabeleland South Province.
The community was urged to play an active role in crime prevention by reporting criminal activities, shunning drug and substance abuse, and working closely with the police to maintain peace and security.
Chief Sigola’s coronation was described by attendees as a symbol of progressive traditional leadership, with her installation coming at a time when government has been advocating for increased participation of women in leadership positions.
The ZRP said traditional leaders remain critical partners in crime prevention as they are custodians of community values and exert influence at grassroots level.
In a related development, police in Hwange conducted a similar crime awareness campaign at Hwange Bus Terminus, focusing on Operation Stock Theft Hot Pursuit, a nationwide operation targeting stock theft.
During the campaign, officers educated members of the public on the importance of obtaining stock clearance documents, complying with stock movement requirements, and purchasing meat from verified and legitimate sources.
Members of the public were also urged to report stray livestock to the police or relevant authorities to curb stock theft and prevent disputes that often lead to violent crimes.
The police said Operation Stock Theft Hot Pursuit seeks to ensure compliance with livestock movement laws, reduce cases of stock theft, and protect farmers who continue to lose cattle to rustlers.
The ZRP has in recent months intensified its outreach programmes, moving from stations into communities, bus termini, business centres and traditional ceremonies to ensure crime prevention messages reach a wider audience.
Police say community participation remains central to reducing crime, adding that public cooperation through timely reporting and adherence to the law is key to enhancing public safety.