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Peter Matika, [email protected]

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police yesterday honoured 15 officers from its Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in the southern region for showing dedication and commitment in fighting crime.

Some of the cleared criminal cases that have earned the detectives recognition include murder, armed robbery, theft of copper cables and vandalism of national infrastructure, kidnapping and unlawful entry.

The recipients were drawn from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and South, Midlands and Masvingo provinces. The colourful event, which was held at the Bulawayo Police Headquarters, Ross Camp, was attended by the ZRP top brass.

The awards serve as motivation and appreciation of the work that the ZRP members are doing to fight crime and protect citizens. The officers who excelled showed exemplary dedication and commitment to their duties thereby impacting positively to service delivery.

Acting Chief Director of the ZRP CID Assistant Commissioner Jealous Nyabasa said the awards serve as a source of inspiration to other law enforcement agents and relevant stakeholders.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is extremely proud of its officers who, despite all the difficulties and complexities associated with their job, still manage to contribute towards fighting crime,” he said.

Ass Comm Nyabass said the ZRP was celebrating success stories of police detectives who had singled themselves out through exceptional performance and selfless dedication to policing in the investigation of heinous crimes during the year 2023.

He said on its part, the ZRP will continue to mobilise resources to ensure that modern tools of trade are available for officers to be able to outpace the ever-mutating criminal sophistry.

 “Thus, regardless of the determination of most detectives to succeed, only a few today stand head and shoulders above their peers with their heroic and extraordinary efforts being rewarded. We are all gathered here to commend you all for the risks that you took to save the lives and property of others,” said Ass Comm Nyabasa.

He said the ZRP command and the Government of Zimbabwe remain mindful that the CID requires a wide range of resources for them to be able to effectively discharge their mandate.

Asst Comm Nyabasa said despite the challenges that their officers are facing, they have remained steadfast to the call of duty. 

“I therefore implore you to continue fostering mutually beneficial relationships with both our internal and external stakeholders in managing transnational and organised crimes that include terrorism, human, wildlife, and drug trafficking, online sexual abuse and money laundering among others,” he said.

 Ass Comm Nyabasa said as a result of stakeholder collaborations the ZRP was celebrating a group of officers who will be remembered among the most prolific ones in the CID’s narrative.

He said the fight against crime in Bulawayo was remarkable as various stakeholders were involved.

“My remarks will be remiss if I fail to appreciate Bulawayo Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe (BACFZ) for their unparalleled commitment to ensuring a crime-free society. We value and cherish your generosity and support that you have over time demonstrated in partnering with the Zimbabwe Republic Police,” he said.

Asst Comm Nyabasa said over and above the service excellence awards, ZRP also makes use of the reward system to recognise acts of selflessness and bravery by its officers who are present with medals, monetary and non-monetary awards.

He said rewards for excellence and acts of bravery are also extended to  members of the public, who at the discretion of the organisation are rewarded and honoured for their commitment and devotion in the fight against crime. 

“We value the contribution of our law enforcement agents and the community in the fight against crime as such efforts will enhance ZRP’s image and reputation and serve as motivation to other members,” said Asst Comm Nyabasa.