By Midweek Reporter
The Gutu Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe (BACFOZ) recently hosted a community engagement party aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Police and local communities.
The event brought together stakeholders from various sectors to promote the idea of inclusive policing and highlight the importance of community involvement in crime prevention.
Masvingo East District Officer in Charge Operations, Superintendent Chingoda emphasized the critical role of community partnerships in effective policing.
“The police force cannot make it alone without the communities they work in,” he said.
Superintendent Chingoda praised the relationship between Gutu Police and residents saying, “We applaud the harmonious relationship existing between Gutu community and the Police force in its quest to curb crime in the country. The multi sectoral attendance here portrays the relationship which has gone a long way in improving operations at this station and bringing down crime rates.”
The collaboration aims to build a crime free society in line with the national vision, with police bases and neighborhood watch committees being established across all wards in the area.
Gutu Station BACFOZ Chairperson, Isaya Ngwaru stated that business players have been instrumental in supporting the police to maintain peace and order.
“As the business community, we have been there to assist the police as this boosts our business operations while also creating a peaceful community and business environment,” he said.
Ngwaru also highlighted that crime has gone down significantly due to community whistleblowing and volunteering information to law enforcement agents.
The event highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between law enforcement and the community in the fight against crime, with all stakeholders committed in strengthening ties and maintaining peace and security in Gutu District.
