By Flata Kavinga
Officer Commanding Police Kwekwe District, Chief Superintendent Ison Chapeta, has warned drug dealers that they will be arrested without fear or favour as police intensify efforts to curb drug and substance abuse in the city.
Addressing the public during an anti-drug procession at the Kwekwe Commuter Omnibus Terminus ahead of the official launch of the Midlands Christian Community Police Network, Chapeta said police will continue to raid drug peddlers and confiscate illicit substances.
“We are warning anyone dealing in drugs that the long arm of the law will catch up with you. Once we know that you are dealing, we will raid your home and arrest you. We will not apply the law selectively. Anyone dealing in drugs will be arrested despite one’s station or stature,” he said.
Chapeta said drugs such as mbanje, mutoriro and guka were threatening the future of young people.
“If you are supplying drugs to young people, you are a threat to the young generation’s future. We want children to grow in a drug-free environment as they are the leaders of tomorrow,” he said, urging residents to report drug dealers to police.
He also warned members of the public against carrying dangerous weapons, saying police had issued a prohibition order running from 14 August to 14 November 2025.
“As I speak, we have a police prohibition order which allows us to carry out stop-and-search operations. We will arrest those found in possession of dangerous weapons and drugs,” he said.
Chapeta commended the Christian Community Police Network for its role in educating youths on the dangers of drugs and substance abuse.
Meanwhile, Chapeta called on communities to work together to create safe environments for children, free from the influence of drugs and abuse.
Speaking at the launch of the Midlands Provincial Christian Community Police Network (CCPN) and Anti-Drug Campaign at Kwekwe High School he said the initiative was a powerful partnership between the police and the church in addressing social challenges.
“The Christian Community Police Network embodies the spirit of partnership and cooperation that is essential in addressing the complex challenges we face today. By bringing together the moral authority of the church and the expertise of law enforcement, we can create a formidable force for the good of our communities,” he said.
Chapeta said the fight against drugs was central to safeguarding the future of young people.
“Drugs not only destroy lives but also fuel crime and undermine the fabric of our society. We must tackle this issue head-on, and we are prepared to deal decisively with anyone who deals in drugs, without fear or favour,” he said.
He stressed that police would not tolerate child abuse, warning perpetrators would face the full weight of the law.
“If you abuse children, we will deal with you decisively. Communities must work together to create environments where our children can grow free from the influence of drugs and abuse,” he said.
Chapeta also urged church leaders and members of the newly launched network to use their platforms to spread messages of hope, resilience, and positive life choices.
“I urge all members of this network to be proactive in your communities. Together we can make a difference and build a brighter future for all,” he said.
