By Fanuel Chinowaita
MUTARE, Zimbabwe — Police in Manicaland have warned members of the public against gambling on Aviator, saying some players have lost their entire salaries and, in extreme cases, resorted to suicide after suffering financial losses.
The warning was issued today by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Manicaland acting spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka during a crime and traffic awareness campaign at Sakubva Bus Terminus and in Mutare’s central business district ahead of the Heroes and Defence Forces holidays.
Chinyoka said police were concerned about the consequences of irresponsible gambling, particularly among people who spend their entire pay on Aviator in the hope of making quick money.
“People should desist from playing Aviator. Many people have committed suicide after using their whole pay. Money cannot be downloaded,” Chinyoka said.
The police campaign covered a range of crime and public safety issues, including domestic violence, public violence, murder, robbery, theft, stock theft and road traffic accidents.
With thousands of Zimbabweans expected to travel during the holiday period, Chinyoka also issued a warning to motorists against reckless driving, urging them to observe road safety regulations.
He warned drivers against speeding, overloading vehicles, driving under the influence of alcohol and using mobile phones while behind the wheel.
“We are urging motorists not to overload, not to speed and not to drink and drive. They should also desist from making phone calls while driving because this causes accidents,” he said.
The police official also urged members of the public to avoid violence during the holidays, particularly domestic and public violence.
Chinyoka appealed to people travelling to rural areas to resolve disputes peacefully rather than resorting to violence or accusations of witchcraft.
“Let us desist from domestic violence and public violence wherever we are going. When we are in the rural areas, let us not accuse each other of using juju. When there is a dispute, let us try to solve it amicably,” he said.
Police also warned residents against falling victim to criminal schemes in which unsuspecting people are deceived and robbed of their belongings.
Chinyoka said people should be cautious of “Chadonha”, a scam in which criminals allegedly use tricks to lure victims before taking their money or valuables.
“Money cannot be picked on the road. There is what is called Chadonha where residents are tricked and their belongings are taken,” he said.
He further warned commuters against using mishikashika, informal and often unregistered transport operators, saying passengers could expose themselves to robbery and other forms of crime.
“Let us desist from using mishikashika because people will be robbed. We urge residents to use public transport,” Chinyoka said.
The awareness campaign forms part of police preparations for the Heroes and Defence Forces holidays, a period typically associated with increased travel and movement of people across the country.
Police urged the public to remain vigilant, safeguard their property and report suspicious activities while travelling or attending holiday gatherings.
Chinyoka’s message was ultimately one of caution: motorists should prioritise safety on the roads, families should resolve disputes peacefully and members of the public should avoid financial risks that could leave them vulnerable during the holiday period.