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Police crackdown on knife crime as violent attacks surge
2 hrs ago |
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The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified a nationwide operation targeting individuals carrying knives, machetes and other dangerous weapons in public spaces, as authorities move to curb rising cases of violent crime.
The operation, which began on May 9, is part of ongoing efforts to reduce murders, attempted murders and armed robberies linked to weapons commonly carried in public areas such as bars, nightclubs, mining settlements and residential neighbourhoods.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the crackdown is aimed at restoring public safety amid growing concern over violent incidents involving edged weapons.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified Operation No to Knives in Pockets/Inqgamu Idingani Esikhwameni/Banga Rinodei Muhomwe as part of ongoing efforts to curb violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder and robbery," he said.
He added that there is no justification for members of the public to carry such weapons in everyday settings.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that there is no justification for members of the public to carry knives, machetes or other dangerous weapons in public places," he said.
Police say many violent incidents occur when minor disputes escalate in environments where individuals are armed, particularly in drinking spots and informal settlements.
According to the ZRP, the operation has already led to hundreds of arrests. On May 18 alone, 15 people were arrested, bringing the cumulative total to 346 since the launch of the exercise.
The police have urged members of the public to cooperate with stop-and-search operations and to report individuals found carrying dangerous weapons.
"Members of the public are urged to co-operate with police officers during stop-and-search exercises and to report individuals carrying dangerous weapons through the national complaints desk or at any nearest police station," Commissioner Nyathi said.
Authorities say the operation will continue as part of broader efforts to reduce violent crime and improve safety in communities across the country.
The operation, which began on May 9, is part of ongoing efforts to reduce murders, attempted murders and armed robberies linked to weapons commonly carried in public areas such as bars, nightclubs, mining settlements and residential neighbourhoods.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the crackdown is aimed at restoring public safety amid growing concern over violent incidents involving edged weapons.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified Operation No to Knives in Pockets/Inqgamu Idingani Esikhwameni/Banga Rinodei Muhomwe as part of ongoing efforts to curb violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder and robbery," he said.
He added that there is no justification for members of the public to carry such weapons in everyday settings.
Police say many violent incidents occur when minor disputes escalate in environments where individuals are armed, particularly in drinking spots and informal settlements.
According to the ZRP, the operation has already led to hundreds of arrests. On May 18 alone, 15 people were arrested, bringing the cumulative total to 346 since the launch of the exercise.
The police have urged members of the public to cooperate with stop-and-search operations and to report individuals found carrying dangerous weapons.
"Members of the public are urged to co-operate with police officers during stop-and-search exercises and to report individuals carrying dangerous weapons through the national complaints desk or at any nearest police station," Commissioner Nyathi said.
Authorities say the operation will continue as part of broader efforts to reduce violent crime and improve safety in communities across the country.
Source - newsday
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