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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]

POLICE in Matabeleland South have joined hands with farmers to mobilise resources to construct a new police base at Todds Resettlement area in Gwanda following concerns over rampant stock theft targeting commercial farms.

Cattle rustlers continue to give farmers sleepless nights across the country and this is partly blamed for the slow growth of the national herd. 

Police have since scaled up responses to tackle the criminals head on and part of strategies include establishment of bases along the borderline and increasing patrols.

Construction of police base underway in Todds resettlement area in Gwanda

Speaking during a groundbreaking ceremony for the new base station, Officer Commanding Gwanda District, Chief Superintendent Mandlenkosi Moyo, said efforts were underway to intensify patrols in hotspot areas.

“We have realised positive results from our operations where we have intensified patrols and established bases along the borderline areas,” he said. 

“The challenge is that thieves are now operating inland within areas that include Todds area, Mashura, Dwala, Tshabezi and Johnsly targeting mostly commercial farms. 

“We will not tire and we will strive to ensure that we remain a step ahead of these criminals.”

One of the farmers from the area, Mr Thabani Sibanda, said safeguarding livestock is not only the role of the police but the community as well. He said they will not only support through providing resources for the police base but join the police on patrols in the area.

Officiating at the event, Gwanda-Tshitaudze Constituency Member of Parliament, Cde Fisani Moyo, applauded the police and farmers for their unity of purpose.

“I would like to applaud the farmers from this area for responding to the appeal from the police to help fight  crime. 

“This police base, which is being built here will go a long way in reducing crime in this area. I urge people from all communities to be like-minded and play their part in the fight against crime,” he said. — @DubeMatutu