Police to pay informers

Police in Masvingo Province have announced plans to reward informants whose information leads to the arrest and successful prosecution of criminals, as authorities intensify efforts to combat crime in communities.

Speaking during a crime awareness campaign held at Gumbo Business Centre in Zaka, Masvingo/Chiredzi Acting District Criminal Investigations Officer, Naboth Nyachega, said members of the public have a crucial role to play in helping law enforcement bring offenders to justice.

Nyachega revealed that funds have been set aside to compensate individuals who provide credible information that results in investigations, arrests and convictions.

"We are happy that we have a budget that if someone informs us that someone committed a crime, we investigate, arrest the person and then go to our superiors and have the money released to the informer. That money is there for people who give us information about those who commit crimes, especially murderers and thieves," he said.

He expressed concern that many criminals continue to evade justice because witnesses and community members are often reluctant to report crimes, record statements or testify in court.

"We hear people discussing criminals in communities, but when it comes to recording statements and testifying in court, no one comes forward.

"You may know someone who commits crimes in different places but you keep quiet. Help us with information so communities become safe," said Nyachega.

The senior police officer also urged residents to refrain from harbouring or protecting wanted suspects, warning that such actions enable criminals to continue offending and undermine community safety.

Meanwhile, Zaka District Development Coordinator, Nyaradzo Tongofa, called on residents to support anti-crime initiatives, saying rising criminal activity was negatively affecting development in the district.

"Zaka has become a cause for concern. Communities must work together to fight violence and criminal activities because they negatively affect development," she said.

Tongofa encouraged village and ward assemblies to play a more active role in crime prevention, urging traditional leaders to educate residents on the consequences of criminal behaviour.

Authorities hope that stronger cooperation between communities and law enforcement agencies will help reduce crime levels and create a safer environment for residents and development projects in Zaka and surrounding areas.