Residents of Mufakose, a densely populated suburb in Harare, are organizing a protest on February 22 to demand action against drug dealers and express dissatisfaction with law enforcement’s response to the crisis.
The demonstration comes in the wake of a tragic incident where Hilda Drawu was fatally stabbed 19 times by her 22-year-old son, Nyasha Bandawe, also known as “Nyale,” following a domestic dispute. Bandawe, reportedly struggling with drug addiction, is now facing murder charges.
Community members have raised alarms about the increasing crime rates linked to substance abuse among young people. Many believe law enforcement has not taken adequate steps to curb the issue, prompting them to take action themselves.
Agatha Chiseya, a community representative, stated in an interview with ZimLive that residents are compiling a detailed list of suspected drug dealers and their locations to present to the police.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating:
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“We encourage citizens to provide the names of drug suppliers and any officers who may be colluding with criminals. Drug-related crimes, including murder, are becoming increasingly concerning, and the police are implementing stringent measures to combat this menace.”
Amos Mbeve, a local resident, claimed that drug dealing is rampant in the area and that law enforcement at Marimba and Warren Park police stations is aware of these illegal activities but has failed to act decisively. He alleged:
“Police officers are aware of these drug networks, and some receive bribes from the cartels. Our children are suffering; some lose their mental stability, and our future looks bleak. Officers come, take their share, and leave—one of them is known as Mutambisi.”
Common illegal substances circulating in the area include crystal meth (Mutoriro Dombo Guka), Bronclear (Bronco, a codeine-based cough syrup), Red Beret (homemade wines sold cheaply), Skunk (synthetic cannabis), and Antipsychotics (Mangemba).
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