Lydia Koto
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has challenged Masvingo residents especially the youth to shun drug and substance abuse as the practice is detrimental to own health and society at large.
Speaking at the drug and substance awareness campaign launch at Mamutse ground in Mucheke suburb, Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Masvingo Officer in Charge Hazvinei Jindu said drug abuse is now one of the major concerns as more people have joined the practice.
“Drug abuse is now one of the major concerns in the country. People are now abusing drugs like dagga or mbanje, crystal methy also known as Mutoriro or Dombo and cough syrups,” Jindu said
Masvingo residents were also urged not to grow dagga plants in their backyards because if they are caught they face arrest and be prosecuted.
“I urge you not to plant dagga plants in your yards because if we catch you, you will be arrested,” she urged.
Jindu also said drug abuse have side effects that affect the health of the affected individual.
“Drug abuse can cause one to give birth to Down syndrome and also it can cause family disintegration, death, and health problems, so abstain from drug abuse,” Jindu added.
Members of the public were also challenged to work with police by supplying them with vital information and leads to those dealing in drugs in their respective communities.
Guest of honour Minister of Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira urged people to take the campaign seriously as drug abuse is now affecting the country at large.
“Let’s take this exercise seriously because drug abuse is now affecting the country at large. I recommend that media outlets increase coverage on the negative consequences of the consumption of dangerous drugs. Law enforcement agents should also intensify their activities to curtail the abuse of illicit drugs” said Chadzamira.
He also said youth in rural areas should also be incorporated in drug and substance abuse as they are also affected.
Achievement Mateveke who is clinical psychologist at Ngomahuru said about five patients are admitted daily on Ngomahuru hospital and a ward which is supposed to have 40 patients is now having 100 patients . Family members were urged to support each other if anyone is affected by drugs by taking them to counselling.
“At Ngomahuru we receive about five patients everyday and a ward which is supposed to have 40 patients is now having 100 patients.Family members let’s support each other ,if anyone is affected by drugs let’s take him or her to counselling.”said Mateveke.
