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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]

POLICE say community involvement is crucial in the fight against stocktheft, and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit is conducting engagement meetings to increase community participation in the fight.

Village heads are encouraged to establish anti-stock theft committees and work closely with the police’s anti-stock theft crack teams. Members of the committees should be farmers who know the value of livestock and can represent the community. 

The village anti-stock theft committees will be expected to conduct patrols and work with the police to curb  stock theft, with traditional leaders playing a significant role in shaping behaviour and influencing the community. 

Speaking at a meeting in Gungwe, Gwanda, police anti-stock theft coordinator, Assistant Commissioner Fredrick Mbengwa, said traditional leaders have a significant role to play in eliminating crime within their communities.

“The police anti-stock theft crack team is a special unit, which was created to spearhead the fight to curb stock theft,” he said. 

“In order for the unit to realise significant progress, we need to work closely with traditional leaders. 

“These units have been established at provincial level, district level and stations. 

Image taken from Bigstock

“Every village head has to set up an anti-stock theft committee, which they have to share. For those who haven’t established the committees, please ensure that you formulate them as soon as possible.

“You can engage your officer-in-charge and his anti-stock theft team, to assist in the process. 

“Village anti stock-theft committees will be expected to work with their local police anti-stock theft crack teams.”

Asst Comm Mbengwa said the village heads have to further ensure that suitable individuals are selected to be part of the committees. 

“Each and every member of society has to play a part in the fight against stock theft.

“If we could have an effective anti-stock theft committee in each village then this will go a long way in curbing stock theft and bringing the culprits to book. 

“It’s concerning that some members of the community choose to protect culprits while some aid them. Let’s all play our part and take a stand against crime,” he said. — @DubeMatutu