Machete gangs wreak havoc in Bulawayo

Fear and frustration are mounting across Bulawayo as machete-wielding gangs continue to terrorise residents in several suburbs, leaving a trail of violence, injury, and trauma in their wake.

Over the past week, multiple victims have been hospitalised with severe head, leg, and hand injuries following brutal attacks by these gangs. Community leaders are now urging immediate action from law enforcement to restore safety and curb what they describe as a surge in urban terror.

Winos Dube, Chairperson of the Bulawayo United Residents Association, said the situation has become unbearable, with residents feeling abandoned by those tasked with protecting them.

"The harassment is too much. I am now genuinely worried and concerned. It feels as if we are living among terrorists," said Dube.
"We are wondering what law enforcement and the system at large is doing to stop this, because it is clearly getting out of hand."

Dube said residents had been providing the police with information, but very little had been done, leaving communities vulnerable and desperate.

He called for legislation that encourages whistleblowing and allows people to report perpetrators safely and confidentially. Meanwhile, he advised residents to move in groups and stay alert, describing the situation as "extremely worrying."

Community outrage was further stoked by recent statements from police authorities downplaying reports of machete gang violence.

Thabani Ndlovu, provincial secretary for administration of the Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association, slammed the police for dismissing the severity of the attacks.

"Just last week, I attended the funeral of one of the victims. It was heartbreaking," said Ndlovu.

"Residents in Entumbane confirmed witnessing attacks. The local councillor corroborated these incidents, yet police seem unwilling to act decisively."

He urged the police to reassess their position and start listening to residents who have been at the mercy of these criminal gangs.

"Ignoring the voices of the community is only adding to its fear and frustration."

With faith in authorities dwindling, residents are being encouraged to form neighbourhood watch groups and take precautionary measures, such as installing street lights and creating safe routes for those who travel early in the morning or at night.

"We need to come together like the residents of Mpopoma who installed their own lighting systems. Communities must be proactive," Ndlovu said.

Local resident Blessing Makonye echoed the growing fear on the ground.

"I'm living in fear. This situation is getting out of hand. If the police do not act fast, we'll all be killed by these gangs."

Bulawayo, once known for its tranquillity, is now grappling with a security crisis. As public trust in the police erodes, residents hope that mounting pressure will force authorities to take decisive action before the violence claims more lives.