Story by John Nhandara

RESIDENTS of Epworth are excited about the convenience that has come with the construction of a magistrate’s court officially opened by President Emmerson Mnangagwa this Monday.

The mere mention of Epworth’s high-density suburb located on the periphery of Harare evokes images of all sorts of criminal activities associated with the densely populated area.

Most criminals usually spot their victims at Epworth’s popular business centres such as Domboramwari, Overspill, Corner Store, and Solani, with places such kwaDhonhoro and one known as Komboni Yatsva being the hot spots for criminal activities.

A resident said, ‘‘We are now clueless with the rate of crime here in Epworth. Murder cases are being reported almost from corners of Epworth.’’

Another resident noted, ‘‘They steal everything on their way including shoes on the doorstep.’’

Some unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians fall prey to criminals who operate under the cover of darkness.

The construction of a Magistrates Court in Epworth has thus brought a sigh of relief to the community as residents now have easy access to judicial remedies.

The availability and accessibility of a magistrate court will help reduce travel costs to other nearby courts in Mbare and Rotten Row.

The residents also believe government’s gesture to decentralise courts to Epworth was long overdue as it will ensure criminals will face the full wrath of the law, while also deterring would-be offenders and probably reducing Epworth’s crime rate.