By Rex Mphisa
BEITBRIDGE residents have sought the attention of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) at national level for the building of police bases in Mabidi and Siyoka suburbs.
In an interview yesterday Ward 3 Councillor Takavingei Mahachi said a stand had been allocated to police in 2020 and there had been no action.
“We have had reports of several robberies in that area far away from police stations and council allocated a stand for the building of a base. That has not taken place but we have now sought the attention of Harare who are very responsive,” said Mahachi.
“The construction unit of police in Harare said it is dispatching someone from Gwanda to come and see that there are some developments,” said Mahachi.
He said residents had apart from pooling resources for the building of a four-roomed base complete with toilets, cleared the site on stand number 14910 Mabidi Suburb.
He said local police had been procrastinating despite the prevalence of violent crime.
“At times police may not have transport because of their many assignments but if they stationed at he base they can attend to reports early. If the community has contributed we must act on it,” said Mahachi.
Armed robbery cases in that section of Beitbridge and other areas have of late been worrisome.
At one timed armed men struck at a funeral and robbed mourners at Heather Shoko’s residence.
Social Welfare officer Melissa Zimuto was also attacked by robbers who broke into her home at night in another incident.
Several other businesspeople living in that area and cross-border traders living in that section have fallen victim to the robbers who come at night and are believed from Musina.
Mahachi said police at Gwanda had already received plans for the base which will also have holding cells.