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Blessings Chidakwa in Kadoma
The newly-appointed Officer Commanding Kadoma District Chief Supritendent Garikai Gwangwava has condemned the rise in stock theft cases and assault figures reported in the district during the first half of the year, compared to last year.

Addressing hundreds of people at Lincolin Primary School, Eiffel Flats in Kadoma at the launch of district client service charter and cattle branding re-invigoration exrcise last week, Chief Supritendent Gwangwava said there was need for good police-community relations.

He said the uniformed forces were committed to walk the talk in offering services of highest quality in accordance at this year’s theme ‘ZRP promoting gracious peace and economic stability’.

“Our stock is our wealth dating back from yesteryears, cattle serves various purposes including farming, paying lobola among other things,” he said.

“From January to July this year there were 143 stock theft cases recorded compared to 103 that were reported during the same period last year. The perpetrators have been convicted and serving their jail terms.

“A collective approach is needed to put an end on the rise in stock theft. As police we will continue educating farmers on some of the best practices to safeguard their stocks including branding their cattle and securing their kraals.”

Chief Supt Gwangwava said machete attacks that have been prevalent in the district for a long time would soon be a thing of the past.

He called for coordination between the police and community.

“In 2018 robbery cases recorded from January to July is 130 while assaults were 1 369,” he said. “The perpertrators are using machetes and iron bars to commit these crimes.

“This is common in Eiffel Flats mostly in gold mining areas such as Etina. It is an offence to be found in possession of a knife, iron bars and machetes. It pains us a lot that this year two people were stabbed to death with knives in this district.”

Chief Supt Gwangava also condemned corruption, saying it has no place in the Second Republic.

“As ZRP we strongly condemn any acts of corruption as it hinders the country’s development,” he said. “All police members are fully aware that they will lose their jobs if they are caught in the act.

“However, corruption occurs between two or more people so let us all desist from perpetrating it.”

The event helped to further cement the cordial relations between Kadoma police and the community.

Guests were treated to various eye-catching performances by Lincolin pupils and the ZRP Canine section.

Pupils who were outstanding received cash prizes Chief Supt Gwangava.

There was also a demonstration on cattle branding.