Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
Cases of stock theft continue to increase in areas between Bikita and Buhera and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified awareness campaigns against cattle rustling in the affected areas.
With 215 people having been arrested and 419 cases of stock theft having been recorded in Masvingo province in 2024, communities around Bikita have been urged to work with the police to curb the vice.
The plea was made at an awareness campaign meeting held in Budzi area of Bikita by the Zimbabwe Republic Police this Tuesday.
“As ZRP, we are moving around the country educating communities on the importance of looking after their cattle. This area of Bikita is one of the most affected as thieves are operating between this area and Buhera. We are saying, let’s work together to ensure those criminals are arrested. Our goal is to ensure an increased herd for our country,” ZRP National Anti-Stock Theft Unit coordinator, Commissioner Wicklef Makamache said.
Community members applauded the ZRP for increasing their visibility in rural communities saying they are looking forward to a decrease in crime rate.
Chief Budzi stated, “We are happy that the police visited us to educate and talk to the community on stock theft and cattle rustling. It has been a burden for many as thieves are pouncing on our kraals at night, taking our cattle, driving them to Buhera and selling them. However, we are looking forward to a decrease of the vice given an increased visibility of the police.”
“We appeal to the Police to continue working with the community in tackling battle rustling menace. Last year, more than 100 cattle were recovered due to this collaboration and several thieves were arrested,” a community member added.
Government adopted the cattle branding strategy last year to reduce stock theft and control the spread of diseases in the country.
