Residents of Mufakose, a densely populated suburb in Harare, are planning a demonstration on February 22 to protest against drug dealers and what they see as police inaction in tackling the issue.
The protest was triggered by the tragic killing of Hilda Drawu, who was reportedly stabbed 19 times by her 22-year-old son, Nyasha Bandawe, also known as “Nyale,” during a domestic dispute. Bandawe, allegedly a drug addict, has since been charged with murder.
Community members have raised concerns that drug abuse among the youth is fueling crime, prompting them to take matters into their own hands. Many residents have expressed frustration over the lack of strong police intervention despite the presence of known drug dealers.
Agatha Chiseya, a community representative, revealed that residents are compiling a list of drug dealers and their locations, which they intend to submit to the police.
Speaking on the matter, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi stated that law enforcement is closely monitoring the situation. He urged residents to provide names of drug peddlers and any police officers who might be colluding with criminals.
“The rise in drug-related murders is alarming. The issue of drug abuse is serious, and the police are taking firm measures to eliminate this crisis,” Nyathi said.
However, local resident Amos Mbeve claimed that officers from Marimba and Warren Park police stations were aware of drug dealings but failed to act, alleging that some law enforcement officials were accepting bribes from drug cartels.
“The police know what’s happening, but some are benefiting from it. Our children are dying, many are becoming mentally unstable, and our future is at risk,” Mbeve said. He further alleged that a police officer named Mutambisi was among those involved.
Drugs commonly found in the community include crystal meth (Mutoriro, Dombo, Guka), Bronclear (Bronco—cough syrup with high codeine levels), Red Beret (cheap homemade wines), Skunk (synthetic cannabis), and antipsychotic pills (Mangemba).
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