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Inspector Mandlenkosi Moyo

Auxilia Katongomara Chronicle Reporter
POLICE in Bulawayo say they will arrest members of the public who are found with weapons following an increase in robbery and murder cases in the city.Yesterday, police conducted campaigns along 6th Avenue, Madlodlo Beer Garden in Makokoba and in various suburbs in the city, to engage residents in the fight against crime.

The campaign comes a week after two people were murdered in two days.

Bulawayo police provincial spokesperson Inspector Mandlenkosi Moyo told members of the public at Lobengula Street Mall that police had increased stop and search operations in the city.

He warned members of the public not to carry dangerous weapons like okapi knives, iron bars and knobkerries, saying the weapons are “finally used to perpetrate these heinous crimes.”

Using a hailer, he said: “Police are out in full force conducting stop and searches at night and should anybody be found in possession of the mentioned weapons they will be arrested.”

“We’re also bemoaning the sprouting of gambling schools in town and as the police we’ll not rest until sanity prevails and those found on wrong side of the law will be arrested,” Insp Moyo said.

He said police wished to continue their excellent relations with Bulawayo residents who he credited for being the first shield of defence against crime.

“Without you, our job would be difficult. It’s up to everyone of us to ensure criminals are exposed and arrested,” said the police spokesperson.

“As from Monday we’re going to intensify these campaigns to stop senseless crime in the city. We’re encouraging the public to shun violence and solve disputes amicably.”

On May 12, a prostitute was found dead in her rented home in Paddonhurst suburb and her death still remains a mystery.

Memory Mpofu, 25 was found naked and dead by her friend in her room with a piece of cloth stuffed in her mouth with no signs of bruises or blood on her body.

Two days later, a Makokoba man died on the spot after he was stabbed by six men who accused him of blocking their path.

Lawrence Mbama, who worked at a flea market in the city, was attacked at around 7:30PM near the corner of Basch Street and 6th Avenue as he walked home with two friends.

Four suspects yesterday appeared in court charged with murdering Mbama.

Insp Moyo said — in apparent reference to Mbama’s murder — that some of the reasons for killing people were flimsy such that they could have been solved without engaging in violent acts.

Insp Moyo said police are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of Mpofu’s killers.

“We appeal to members of the public to help us with information that may lead to the arrest of the culprit to come forward.

They may contact us on our hotline, (09) 885479, toll free for NetOne subscribers 110, WhatsApp platform +263776097122,” said Insp Moyo.