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Crime Reporter
THIRTEEN people were killed in separate incidents over a seven-day period last month as the surge in murder cases worries the police. The deaths have been attributed to domestic violence and drug abuse. Chief police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba said the cases were recorded between February 9 and 16. “The ZRP has noted with concern recent cases of murder which occurred throughout the country. Statistics gathered for the period from 9 to 16 February indicate that murder cases recorded are as a result of domestic disputes, misunderstandings emanating from alcohol and drug abuse and other social matters.

“Consequently, people use dangerous weapons such as knives, machetes and stones to commit these offences. In most cases recorded accused persons are stabbing their victims using sharp objects,” said.

Snr Asst Comm Charamba said Mashonaland West and Matabeleland North recorded three cases each, Midlands and Matabeleland South had two cases each while Bulawayo, Masvingo and Mashonaland Central recorded one case each.

She urged people to resolve their differences amicably by seeking counselling from police, leaders and church elders.

In December last year, 17 people were murdered countrywide in separate incidents in 10 days.