Technology complicates police investigations

The landscape of modern policing has become increasingly complex, as criminals turn to advanced information and communication technologies to complicate investigations, police officials revealed during the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) 2024 Awards of Excellence in Policing held at CID Headquarters in Harare yesterday.

The event saw the recognition of dozens of police detectives for their exceptional work in tackling serious crimes, including robberies, murders, fraud, and other criminal activities. The awards highlighted the CID's ongoing efforts to stay ahead of evolving criminal tactics, particularly in the face of technological advancements.

Challenges Posed by Technology

In his keynote address, Chief Director CID Commissioner Jealousy Nyabasa, the guest of honor, emphasized the growing sophistication of crime, largely due to the use of technology. He noted that this technological shift has made crime not only more challenging to combat but also more pervasive and damaging to society.

"From the onset, I must inform you all that modern policing has become dynamic, filled with challenges spawned by technology and the general appetite towards criminal tendencies," Nyabasa said. "These developments have made crime more sophisticated, heinous, and far-reaching. The net effect is that it has become increasingly difficult to manage and investigate, resulting in a heightened impact on society."

Nyabasa added that the increased complexity of crime requires the police to be more agile, innovative, and resourceful in their approach.

Call for Collaborative Efforts

Nyabasa also called for greater collaboration between the police and other stakeholders, stressing that solving many cases requires a team effort and an effective systems approach. "This partnership is key, as most, if not all, cases that we handle as CID require a collective effort," he remarked.

The Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe (BACFOZ), which has played an active role in supporting law enforcement, reaffirmed its commitment to assisting the police in tackling crime. BACFOZ Chairperson Lovemore Ncube underscored the importance of collaboration in ensuring a safe environment for businesses to thrive.

"As the business community, we stand to lose out if the country becomes riddled with crime. Hence, it is essential to make an effort toward addressing the challenges of crime," Ncube said.

CID Detectives Recognized for Excellence

The awards ceremony also recognized outstanding CID officers for their exceptional contributions to solving major crimes. The Harare CID Homicide officers took home the first-place award for their excellence in the second quarter, following their successful operation against a group of robbers who stole US$720,000 worth of cash and goods during a heist at Quest Financial Services earlier this year.

Detectives Donalbain Mutambo, William Hwesu, and Tinashe Nyamayaro received the second-place award for their pivotal role in exposing a fraudulent scheme involving the company Delatfin, which had been defrauded by criminals.

The CID's annual awards serve to highlight the courage, resourcefulness, and professionalism of officers, as well as the growing importance of adapting to the rapidly changing landscape of crime driven by technological innovation.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment from the police and their partners to fight crime through continued collaboration, innovation, and investment in technology, all aimed at ensuring the safety and security of Zimbabwean citizens.