Zimpapers Logo

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Plumtree Correspondent
COMMUNITY leaders in Bulilima District have called for heavy police presence in their areas to help reduce crime.

Speaking during a police campaign against violent crimes, Bulilima Rural District Council councillor for Ndolwane area, Mr Ian Matiwaza, said the district needed more police bases.

‘’One of the reasons why we have many violent crimes is because police bases are located far. You find several wards relying on one police base.

“Criminals take advantage knowing that villagers will take long to report crimes because of the distances. If police bases are close to people then police will be visible and this will help fight crime,” he said.

Malanswazi Ward councillor Mr Mtshumayeli Ndlovu said in the meantime police can help by conducting regular patrols within communities as there was limited police presence in remote parts of the district.

Mr Ndlovu said a heavy police presence can help in fighting criminal activities.

Matabeleland South police Provincial Criminal Intelligence Officer, Superintendent Wonder Mavudzi, said the campaign had been launched in order to mitigate crimes of passion (crimes committed due to sudden anger or heartbreak, without premeditation or contemplation).

He said police were trying to incorporate community leaders in combating the crimes.

“Most cases of passion killing occur as a result of jealousy by a lover. Some of these misunderstandings can however, be resolved at community level through help from traditional leaders and councillors.

“We have different units that deal with those issues such as the courts and the Victim Friendly Unit but community leaders play a crucial role as well,” Supt Mavudzi said.

@DubeMatutu.