MIDWEEEK REPORTER
HWANGE-The efforts made by law enforcement agents in holding drug peddlers accountable should be complemented by exposing drug barons, a High Court Judge has said.
In his remarks, while officially opening Hwange Court circuit yesterday, High Court judge, Christopher Dube-Banda bemoaned prevalence of criminal activities such as drug peddling and abuse, stock theft, armed robberies and rape.
Justice Dube-Banda said activities of drug peddlers that harm societies must be nipped in the bud.
“The dealers of these drugs ought to introspect and reflect about the harm they are causing in society. The efforts being made by law enforcement agents in their quest to hold these drug peddlers accountable should be complemented by exposing the drug barons whose nefarious activities must be stopped by all means necessary,” said Justice Dube-Banda.
He also warned cattle rustlers and those who provide market for them that the long arm of the law would soon catch up with them.
“Stock theft is of utmost concern as it causes food insecurity and reduces economic growth. To those who commit this type of crime and those who provide a market for them, the courts are waiting for you with heavy and deterrent penalties. Make no mistake about this because crime will never have the last word,” he warned.
Justice Dube-Banda encouraged members of the public to expose armed robbers even if one is related to these dangerous criminals.
He said the judiciary continues to play its role to sentence malcontents.
“The judiciary is playing and will continue to play its role to bring this heinous crime (armed robbery) under control.
“Members of the public are encouraged to alert the law enforcement agencies about the whereabouts and the hideouts of these criminals who rob people of their hard-earned cash and good,” he said.
Justice Dube-Banda added that, “We, in the courts have seen cases of sexual violence escalating to frightening levels. This must stop because it has no place in our society,”
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He also urged members of the public to resolve disputes amicably than resorting to violence.
Turning to the performance of the Hwange Circuit court in the 2023 legal year, Justice Dube-Banda commended the court for attaining 68 percent court case clearance rate in the period under review.
“All in all, there were 72 matters set down for trial and 49 were completed. This translates to a clearance rate of 68% in 2023. This is a commendable clearance rate.
“These statistics bear testimony to the fact that despite the very heavy workload, the courts continue to strive to deliver timeous justice to the people.”
