Zimbabwe Police Partner With Security Firms To Combat Rise In Armed Robberies

In response to a sharp increase in armed robbery cases across Zimbabwe, private security companies have teamed up with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Support Unit to enhance security for cash-in-transit operations and other high-risk services.

The move reflects a joint effort to combat criminal activity and protect communities from an uptick in violent heists and other organized crimes.

The ZRP Support Unit, a specialized division within the national police force, is typically deployed for public order management, handling major disasters, hostage rescues, protecting key installations and VIPs, border patrols, anti-stock theft operations, and conducting underwater rescue missions. Last Thursday, heavily armed officers from the Support Unit were seen working alongside a private security company in Southerton, Harare, marking the visible presence of ZRP support in private sector security operations.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed this development, explaining that the ZRP has a longstanding practice of providing assistance to organizations that request support. “We have always said that those who want police services in terms of training and other assistance can approach the Commissioner-General of Police, Godwin Matanga,” Nyathi stated. “As the police, we are available to beef up security whenever we are requested to do so.”

In addition to deploying officers, the ZRP recently hosted a Crime Liaison Committee (CLC) workshop in Harare aimed at addressing evolving criminal threats and equipping officers with improved strategies. The workshop gathered officers-in-charge, along with CLC chairpersons from province, district, and station levels, to discuss the changing nature of crime and the need for modernized response tactics.

Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, Officer Commanding Harare, was among the senior officers who attended. Speaking at the event, Chikunguru highlighted the urgency of adapting police tactics to match increasingly bold criminal activities. “Criminals are growing increasingly cunning and daring, employing tactics that challenge our traditional methods of policing,” he said. Referencing a recent $4 million bank heist carried out in broad daylight, he added, “This incident underscores the urgent need for us to adapt and enhance our strategies in response to these evolving threats.”

Chikunguru urged cooperation with the CLC to facilitate the exchange of criminal intelligence, particularly in gathering information on suspicious activities within local communities. “Help us spread the word on crime prevention measures,” he encouraged attendees, emphasizing that community engagement is critical in building a united front against crime. “The skills you have learned during this workshop are invaluable. I urge you to apply them in your respective roles.”

CLC chairperson for Harare Province, Dr. Nathaniel Madzivanyika, emphasized the importance of building trust between the police and the public, especially in today’s interconnected world, where criminal activities extend across both physical and digital spaces. He praised the police for their scientific approach to tackling crime and pointed out that open communication and collaboration between the police and the community are key.

“It is quite clear to us that the trust between the police and the public has become essential to effective policing,” Madzivanyika said. He added that community policing initiatives, which encourage public participation and open dialogue, can serve as an effective counter to various crimes, including terrorism, domestic violence, and substance abuse. “Those who have voluntarily joined forces with ZRP in the fight against crime in Harare and across Zimbabwe should exhibit high levels of commitment, trustworthiness, diligence, and discipline while rejecting any form of corruption,” he stated.

Dr. Madzivanyika further emphasized that crime prevention is a shared responsibility, urging the public to be proactive in supporting community policing initiatives. “Every member of society has a role to play in combating crime,” he remarked, appealing to the public to remember their duty in ensuring safety and upholding the rule of law. As drug abuse and violent crime continue to rise, he stressed the need for unity and mutual trust to address these urgent challenges effectively.

The partnership between the ZRP Support Unit and private security firms reflects a growing recognition that the fight against crime requires a collaborative approach. By reinforcing security efforts and prioritizing community involvement, Zimbabwe aims to restore a sense of safety and security for all citizens in the face of escalating criminal threats.