Gweru-based land developer, River Valley Group has deployed its company security to partner the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in fighting crime in the new Hertfordshire Phase Two suburb following a spate of roberries and other criminal activities in the area.
River Valley Group chief executive, Smelly Dube (pictured), said the company has a responsibility not only to deliver stands, but to ensure a safe and secure environment for homeowners.
“Residents in Hertfordshire Phase Two have been under siege from criminals and we cannot sit back and watch,” Dube said.
“We have, therefore, deployed our well-trained security personnel to patrol identified hotspots in partnership with the police.
“We want residents to feel safe in their homes and when moving around the neighbourhood.
“Their (criminals) days are numbered. We are working with the police to make sure that criminals do not find this area an easy target.”
Dube said the company will provide 24-hour patrols and respond swiftly to suspicious activities in the area, while working closely with ZRP.
There have been recent police reports of gangs armed with machetes, axes, knives and metal rods terrorising residents in Hertfordshire Phase Two.
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The River Valley boss said her company plans to replicate the gated community model established in Woodlands Phase Two, where the residential area has control access points, enclosed by a perimeter fence and monitored by security personnel.
Midlands police spokesperson, inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, urged residents to report suspicious people and activities as well as maintaining vigilance in the suburb.
“This collaboration between police and the private sector is meant to ensure that residents are safe and that criminals do not take advantage of security gaps in the area.”
Residents who spoke to this publication said the initiative in providing uniformed security personnel would not only provide safety to them but also reduce the theft of building materials at construction sites.
