Johnson Progress

In a major blow to the illicit drug trade, the Zimbabwean police have arrested approximately 1,000 individuals identified as key suppliers within national drug supply chains since the start of the year.

The announcement came from National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, during Monday’s commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking in Mbare.

The supplier arrests form a significant part of a broader anti-drug blitz that has seen a total of 7,991 people arrested nationwide since January.

Commissioner Nyathi revealed the breakdown: 994 of those arrested were classified as suppliers, comprising 621 males and 373 females.

Police expressed grave concern over the high level of youth involvement in drug-related crimes.

Disturbingly, 5,879 of those arrested (nearly three-quarters of the total) were under the age of 35, including 1,141 females.

Courts have already convicted 271 males and 111 females linked to these cases.

The crackdown has also highlighted geographic hotspots, with Harare Province accounting for a disproportionate 4,236 of the total arrests.

Commissioner Nyathi specifically addressed the Mbare community during the event held at Stodart Sports Grounds, labelling it a hotspot for drug peddling due to its economic activity.

“The consequences of drug and substance abuse are far-reaching and devastating,” warned Nyathi.

“We have seen cases of heinous crimes, including murder, committed by individuals under the influence of drugs. The link between substance abuse and violent crimes is clear, and it is imperative that we address this scourge with urgency and determination.”

Nyathi urged Mbare residents to collaborate with police, emphasizing the force’s commitment to “disrupting the supply chains, supporting prevention and treatment initiatives, and fostering a culture of responsibility and accountability.”

He cited the recent launch of a rehabilitation centre in Mbare by First Lady Dr. Auxilia Mnangagwa as evidence of the push for collective action, stressing that “economic development can take place where there is order and peace.”

The community response was represented by Mbare District Crime Liaison Committee chairperson Brian Matanga.

He outlined a broad coalition of partners including police, city officials, health agencies, NGOs, businesses, and the correctional service committed to fighting the menace.

Matanga emphasized the importance of listening to experts and those with lived experience: “Their stories of resilience remind us that recovery is possible, and hope is always within reach… Together, we can create an environment where our youth are empowered to make positive choices.”