Crime Wave Grips Nketa -Suburb Bulawayo’s Ward 25 councillor, Aleck Ndlovu, has raised alarm over the rising levels of crime in his constituency, calling on the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to increase both day and night patrols in an effort to restore safety in the area. The call comes amid a spike in violent attacks, break-ins, and robberies, with machete-wielding gangs believed to be behind many of the incidents.
Councillor Ndlovu, speaking during a community engagement, confirmed that residents in areas such as Mgiqika and surrounding sections of Ward 25 have expressed growing concern about their safety. “Concern has been raised about increasing criminal incidents in Mgiqika and other areas in Ward 25,” he said. “The community is living in fear, especially during the night, as reports of robberies and attacks continue to rise.”
In response to the situation, Ndlovu revealed that he has taken the initiative to invite local police authorities to engage directly with the residents. The aim is to educate the public on the risks and consequences of youth involvement in criminal activity, particularly theft and gang-related violence. “I have invited the police to come and address the community on the dangers of youths choosing to live a life of stealing,” he added.
One of the major concerns shared by both residents and law enforcement is the growing presence of machete-wielding gangs. These groups, notorious for their violent tactics, have been linked to illegal gold mining operations that have mushroomed on the outskirts of Bulawayo. According to reports, these mines have become breeding grounds for criminal elements who then carry out attacks in urban neighborhoods.
Crime hits Nketa suburb
In May this year, Bulawayo police reported a breakthrough when they apprehended a feared gang responsible for a string of violent crimes across multiple suburbs. The gang had been operating for months, leaving a trail of fear and injuries in their wake. Despite the arrests, residents fear that more gangs remain active, and without consistent law enforcement presence, the violence could continue.
“We have a neighbourhood watch committee, but it appears overwhelmed,” Ndlovu explained. “Our volunteers are committed, but the nature and scale of the criminal activity has outpaced what the community alone can handle. That’s why we are appealing for stronger police support, with regular day and night patrols to deter these criminals.”
Neighbourhood watch groups in Bulawayo have long served as an important line of defense in the absence of frequent police presence, but the growing brazenness of the criminal elements has tested the limits of these community-led efforts. Residents say that while the watch teams have helped reduce petty crime in some cases, more professional intervention is urgently needed to tackle the rising levels of organised and armed crime.
Several other suburbs across Bulawayo have also reported similar patterns of violence, suggesting that the problem is not isolated to Ward 25 alone. Robberies, particularly home invasions and nighttime assaults, have become alarmingly common in places such as Cowdray Park, Emganwini, and Nketa. In some cases, victims have reported being attacked with machetes or other weapons, reinforcing fears that the gangs are becoming more aggressive and dangerous.
Community leaders have urged parents to closely monitor their children and discourage any involvement in illegal activities. There is growing concern that unemployment and economic hardship are driving young people to join criminal syndicates operating within and around the city. The lure of fast money through illegal gold mining and robberies appears to be enticing many youths, leading them down a path of violence and destruction.
Councillor Ndlovu emphasized the importance of unity and vigilance in combating the crime wave. “We need to work together as residents, police, and local leadership to reclaim our communities from criminals,” he said. “Our children must be protected from this destructive path, and we must ensure our homes are safe again.”
As crime continues to rise, the call for more proactive policing and coordinated community safety measures is growing louder. Residents are hoping that with increased patrols and collaboration between authorities and local leaders, the situation in Ward 25—and Bulawayo at large—can be brought under control before more lives are affected.
Source- Newsday
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