ZNA decries surge in murders
THE Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA)is concerned with the increase in murder cases perpetrated by artisanal miners using machetes in the Midlands Province.
Addressing traditional leaders from the province during traditional leaders’ day commemorations at 5th Brigade Headquarters in Battlefields last Friday, ZNA Chief of Staff, General Staff, Major General Trust Mugoba said chiefs should also play a role of fostering peace.
“In Midlands Province, reports of murder perpetrated by notorious youths who cunningly wield machetes at will, threatening lives of many and without any regard for life are disturbing,” he said.
“Rape cases, armed robberies, cattle rustling and other crimes are also on the increase in the province.
“We call upon all traditional leaders to join hands with the Government to fight this menace.”
Maj-Gen Mugoba said the Midlands province was endowed with a lot of minerals, a development that had seen many youths lose their lives while fighting over such resources.
He said the minerals in the province should instead benefit the province than resulting in lose of lives.
“It is also a fact that the wealth underground remains in your districts and thus should benefit you as a people,” he said.
“The minerals should help develop this province. In short, this province is rich and chiefs should work hand in hand while preaching peace.”
Maj-Gen Mugoba said chiefs should continue to play the role of fostering unity within societies.
“Our economy continues to suffer because the culture of greed has been given room to flourish and diminish the ethical fabric of society,” he said.
“There has never been a greater demand for the involvement of traditional leaders in uniting the people and rallying them together against the prevailing socio-cultural threats that are bent on undermining our socio-cultural fabric as is the case now.”