When tobacco money hits Mvurwi, criminals start circling. This week, the Zimbabwe Republic Police decided to get there first.
Police spokesperson commissioner Paul Nyathi from Police General Headquarters and assistant commissioner Ndou of Mashonaland Central led a high-visibility crime awareness campaign through Mvurwi’s Tobacco Sales Floor, MTC Auction Floor and the Shamwari area.
The target was clear: tobacco farmers entering the marketing season with cash, crop and few security measures between them and armed robbers.
Police flagged five threats dominating the district’s crime blotter; among them, armed robbery, murder, stock theft, domestic violence, and other illegal activities linked to the influx of cash.
In previous seasons, farmers have been robbed at gunpoint on the way home, beaten for proceeds, and killed over disputes at auction floors.
This time, ZRP brought backup including the Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe, Christian Community Police Network, Crime Liaison Committee and local community leaders walked alongside officers.
The message was deliberate: policing alone won’t stop the robberies. Farmers, traders and residents have to close the gaps themselves.
“Secure your earnings, report suspicious activity, and stop settling disputes with violence,” the officers told farmers at the floors.
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It’s basic advice, but in a district where trust in formal systems is low and disputes often turn fatal, it matters.
Mvurwi sits at the heart of Mashonaland Central’s tobacco belt.
During marketing season, the town floods with cash, buyers and temporary workers.
That mix creates opportunity for legitimate trade and for predatory crime. Stock theft spikes as farmers move cattle and equipment.
Domestic violence rises when alcohol and money mix in high-density suburbs.
The campaign’s slogan was blunt: “No to crime.”
Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association president George Seremwe welcomed the move saying it will help farmers to be wary of possible tricks that affect them when they get paid after sells.
“Regular awareness among tobacco farmers is crucial especially when prices are too low,” Seremwe said.
“Some individuals can fall into traps of fraudsters and criminals.
“We warn our membership to be vigilant against any abuse by con men in our midst.”
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