Residents of Sunninghill suburb in Bulawayo say they are living in fear following reports of a group of unidentified individuals allegedly carrying machetes and intimidating people in the area during the evenings.
Community members told CITE that the group has reportedly been moving through parts of the suburb after dark, forcing many residents to alter their routines and avoid walking alone at night.
Some residents claim they have encountered the suspected gang, while others say reports of intimidation have spread anxiety across the community.
Mayibongwe Mpala said the suburb’s sense of safety has deteriorated as residents fear becoming victims of violence.
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“People are genuinely scared. Families are making sure everyone is home before dark because of the reports we’ve been receiving. I saw a group of young men carrying machetes in the evening when I was coming from work. I was actually chased by one of them, but I managed to escape,” said Mpala.
“We want authorities to look into these reports before someone loses their life.”
Another resident, Gift Moyo, said concerns over the alleged gang have become a regular topic of discussion among community members.
“Many people say they have changed their daily routines because they do not want to be outside in the evening. We believe every complaint should be investigated. Our main concern is the safety of families, workers returning home in the evenings and young people who may find themselves walking through the area after dark,” said Moyo.
Patience Sithole said fear of crime had forced residents to avoid certain streets after sunset.
“As a resident, I am avoiding certain streets in the evening because of these thieves. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own neighbourhood, and we hope authorities will address these concerns,” she said.
A member of the Sunninghill neighbourhood watch, who declined to be named for security reasons, urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the police.
“We encourage everyone to avoid walking alone after dark and to report any suspicious activity immediately. We have received concerns from members of the community about groups allegedly intimidating residents during the evening,” the neighbourhood watch representative said.
“In one reported incident, a resident was allegedly chased and sustained injuries while escaping. We urge anyone with information or who has been affected to report the matter to the police so it can be investigated.”
Residents are now calling for increased police patrols and stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community structures to restore confidence and improve security in the suburb.
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