Harare tops Safeguard crime rate report

HARARE – Zimbabwe's capital city recorded the highest number of crime incidents in September last year, according to a Safeguard Security Company report which lists 34 cases in Harare alone.  

The crimes included armed robbery, break‑ins and theft. Bulawayo followed with nine cases, while Manicaland recorded seven incidents during the same period.  

The report, dated 9 October, states that 50 incidents were recorded across Safeguard's nationwide client network in September.  

"Harare remains the primary hotspot, with thefts and break‑ins predominating, while armed robberies, though fewer, continue to pose a significant risk," the report reads.  

Safeguard noted a 7% decline in incidents from August (54) to September (50), and a 15% drop compared to September 2024 (59). Violent crime decreased by 21% month‑on‑month, from 14 cases in August to 11 in September.  

According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, armed robbery cases increased by 4% between January and August 2025. In response, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced a national firearm amnesty allowing the voluntary surrender of unlicensed guns and ammunition. The amnesty ended on 25 October.  

Harare hotspots  
The report shows that Harare's City Centre recorded the highest concentration of incidents, mostly involving lone suspects. Money and electronics were the most targeted items, with most breaches carried out by one to three suspects.  

Critical infrastructure also remains vulnerable, with Alexandra Park identified as a high‑risk area. Suspects targeted ZESA transformers, stealing copper cables, oil and fuel. Vehicle‑related crimes were also common in public spaces.  

On 26 September, unknown suspects using a gold Nissan Tiida were involved in a theft from a vehicle at a Pomona service station.  

Two suspects were arrested in Unit N, Chitungwiza, on 14 September in connection with a vehicle theft, amid indications that criminals are increasingly targeting both stationary and moving trucks transporting goods.  

Safeguard said peak crime activity occurs between 1 AM and 4 AM.

Crime outlook  
While reported incidents declined, Safeguard warned that heightened vigilance remains essential.  

"Police statistics confirm a 4% increase in armed robberies, highlighting the persistence of high‑risk criminal activity. As the financial year draws to a close, the likelihood of targeted offences such as robbery and fraud typically escalates," the report states.  

Power interruptions were also cited as a major security risk, compromising CCTV, perimeter lighting and electronic access control systems.  

Businesses were urged to strengthen cash‑handling procedures, avoid keeping large sums on‑site, and ensure secure transportation of money.  

The company also advised businesses to maintain updated records of high‑value assets, invest in vehicle trackers, and implement strict safety protocols for night‑time deliveries.  

Regular staff briefings and emergency drills were recommended to ensure preparedness.

Breakdown of incidents  
Between 5 and 29 September, Harare recorded several break‑ins and thefts.  

 - Msasa (25 September): About 70 litres of diesel were stolen from a parked truck.  
 - Alexandra Park (27 September): Five suspects, one armed, ambushed a guard, seized his firearm and broke into an office before fleeing when an alarm sounded.  
 - Greendale (14 September): An attempted armed robbery was foiled by an alarm.  
 - Mount Hampden (29 September): Two armed intruders overpowered guards, tied them with ropes and stole money, a CCTV unit and a DVR.  
 - Workington (13 September): Suspects tied up a guard and broke gate locks but fled when an alarm activated.

Bulawayo and other provinces  
Bulawayo recorded several break‑ins and thefts between 6 and 28 September.  

 - Suburbs (8 September): Three suspects subdued a caretaker, ransacked offices, stole bags, shoes and a solar battery, and attempted to access two vehicles.  

Manicaland recorded seven incidents, with Mutare being the most affected.  

Midlands recorded three theft cases in Gweru and Kwekwe between 10 and 15 September.  

Matabeleland North had one break‑in at Inyathi, where three suspects fled after spotting a guard.  

In Masvingo, police are investigating two armed robberies that occurred on 14 September at Nyika and Jerera business centre.  

National police statistics show an 8% decline in overall crime between January and August 2025 compared to the previous year.