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Susan Nyabunze Herald Reporter
The Zimbabwe Republic Police handled over 100 cases of vehicle robbery this year compared to 48 last year. Officially handing over a vehicle donated by the Crime Consultative Committee to the Criminal Investigations Department Vehicle Theft Squad in Harare yesterday, Senior Assistant Commissioner Angeline Guvamombe said the trend was worrying.

“It is disturbing to note that during the period under review, an upsurge in the number of robbery of motor vehicle cases was recorded with 102 case received in 2014 as compared to 48 cases in 2013,” said Snr Asst Com Guvamombe.

“Consequently, this increase demands concerted and undiluted efforts of the police and its external stakeholders to curb the prevalence of incidences of motor vehicle theft.”

However cases of vehicle theft have declined.

“I am pleased to state that the theft of motor vehicles went down from 128 cases recorded in 2013 to 110 recorded in 2014.

“This reduction is primarily as a result of joint efforts by the police, the Crime Consultative Committee and other relevant stakeholders in the fight against crime,” said Snr Asst Comm Guvamombe.

The Crime Consultative Committee comprises representatives of Government departments and the private sector.

Crime Consultative Committee chairperson Mr Chamunorwa Nduku said the donated vehicle should assist police in fighting crime.

“The station deals with serious cases of theft and robberies of motor vehicles where high powered vehicles are involved. As such they need to have motor vehicles that will be able to match their policing needs and terrain.

“The donated vehicle will also go a long way in follow-ups of criminals and any other operations arising thereof,” he said.