Thugs Caught In Hatcliffe: Police Crackdown On Crime Wave
By Desire Tshuma
Hatcliffe – In a significant breakthrough, police have arrested a gang of thugs and thieves terrorizing the Hatcliffe community. The suspects, including a female named Netsai (pictured), were apprehended on Friday and are facing charges of housebreaking, theft, and substance abuse.
The gang, led by a notorious thief known as “Ghost”, had been operating in different groups, targeting unsuspecting residents in various parts of Hatcliffe. They would steal phones, wallets, and other valuables, often using the cover of darkness to evade detection.
“Kune vaibirwa ndo team racho iro bt pane vamwe vatisina kukwanisa kubata vati i 20 uye ma group avo vamwe ndevekupwanya Mota vamwe ndevekurovakunzu usiku vamwe kupinda mudzimba nema tuckshop,” said a local neighborhood watch member, who wished to remain anonymous. “We’ve been working with the police, and we’ve identified their hot spots – pachidam or mabanana, Tern Craft, 36 street, Zimuti bus stop, Hatcliffe 1 shops, and 17th street near Hatcliffe shops.”
Former Hatcliffe Councillor Munyengera praised the police for their efforts, saying, “This is a welcome move. We have been crying out for action against these thugs, and it’s great to see the police taking concrete steps.”
Netsai, one of the suspects, has a history of involvement in criminal activities, including a case involving the death of a security guard in Hatcliffe a few years ago. Residents expressed outrage and demanded justice.
“The police have done a great job, but we need to do more to address the root causes of crime,” said Councillor Elvis Ruzane. “Many have lost lives due to these late night robberies and murders. The apprehension of the culprits is commendable, but we await justice. One common trait about these culprits is they take drugs. I urge the police to target drug peddlers within the community. That will go a long way in averting the breeding of thieves and murderers.”
Residents accused some local sex workers of harbouring the thugs, who would often turn to violent crimes. They also expressed frustration that neighborhood watch members, despite their efforts, were often outsmarted by the gang.
Dr. Tagwire, ZANU PF Central committee member, had promised to provide a vehicle for neighborhood watch patrols, but it has not materialized.
The police urged residents to come forward and identify the suspects if they had been victims of crime. The suspects are currently in custody, facing charges.
As the community breathes a sigh of relief, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next in the fight against crime in Hatcliffe?
