MILLICENT HUNGWE
ZAKA-The Police conducted a crime awareness campaign at Gumbo Business Centre in Zaka North, under the jurisdiction of Chief Ndanga, on September 17.
The event, held under the theme ‘promoting community safety and reducing crime’, brought together a wide range of stakeholders including traditional leaders, law enforcement agency, environmental officers, and local authorities.
Notable figures present included Wilson Makono known as Chief Ndanga, Masvingo Province Officer Commanding, Commissioner Fredrick Mbengwa, 286 Headmen, councillors, Zaka District Development Coordinator (DDC) Gift Machukela, and Munyaradzi Murambwa, the District Environmental Officer from Environmental Management Agency (EMA).
During the campaign, the Provincial Victim Friendly Unit Coordinator, Harriet Nleya raised alarm over the increase in cases of sexual abuse in Zaka District, particularly aggravated indecent assault, and domestic violence.
“Of grave concern is the disturbing trend of young children under the age of 7 being raped, often by their own biological or stepfathers, or individuals close to the family.
“Due to the sensitivity and prevalence of these crimes, ZRP has decided to work closely with traditional leaders and churches to raise awareness and educate the community on prevention and reporting, that is one of the agendas of this campaign,” she said.
Mothers were strongly advised not to leave children, especially girls, with male relatives when attending church, social gatherings, or other functions.
Furthermore, families were urged to ensure girls are safe when going to school or fetching water, and women were cautioned against walking alone at night without proper home security, including internal locks.
The ZRP emphasized the importance of timely reporting of rape cases which is within 72 hours, to allow for medical attention that can prevent pregnancy and the transmission of diseases, as well as to preserve forensic evidence that aids investigations.
Commissioner Mbengwa reinforced the call for communities to report all abuse cases, even when the perpetrator is the family’s breadwinner.
“Let’s work together. United we stand, divided we fall, I urge women not to conceal abuse cases for being afraid of losing a breadwinner, it is better for the breadwinner to languish in prison than for your child to be abused, report them to the police regardless of their status,” he said, urging unity in the fight against abuse.
A question-and-answer session followed, where written community concerns were addressed directly by the Commissioner.
In his vote of thanks, Chief Ndanga expressed gratitude for the initiative, acknowledging how informative the day had been for the community. He stressed the importance of such awareness in preserving cultural values and protecting the vulnerable.
He also encouraged the continued operation of the neighborhood watch program, saying it is a vital tool in reducing crime and improving community safety in Zaka.
