Chitungwiza Orders Removal of Illegal Pool Tables Amid Drug Abuse Concerns

CHITUNGWIZA — Chitungwiza Municipality has ordered operators of pool tables located at unauthorised sites across the town to remove them and any associated illegal structures within seven working days, citing growing concerns over drug and substance abuse. The directive was issued in a public notice dated 16 June 2026 and signed by Acting Town Clerk Japson Nemuseso.

According to the municipality, authorities are increasingly concerned about the proliferation of pool tables at undesignated locations, including residential areas, tuckshops, shebeens, overnight parking sites, road servitudes, and public transport termini.

Nemuseso said reports received by the local authority suggest that some of the facilities are being used as centres for drug dealing and substance abuse, particularly among young people.

“The Municipality has received reports that some of these facilities are being used as centres for drug dealing and substance abuse activities, particularly among young people. Such activities pose a threat to public safety, community well-being, and the future of our youth,” he said.

He added that the municipality was taking the action as part of efforts to create a safer and more orderly environment for residents.

“In the interest of protecting communities and promoting a safe and orderly environment, Chitungwiza Municipality hereby directs all operators of pool tables located at unauthorised sites to remove them, together with any related illegal structures, within seven working days from the date of this notice,” Nemuseso said.

The municipality warned that operators who fail to comply with the directive risk having their pool tables confiscated and may face further enforcement measures permitted under the law.

Authorities said municipal officials would work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the order.

“Failure to comply with this directive will result in the confiscation of the pool tables and any other enforcement action as provided for by law,” the notice stated.

As part of the crackdown, Chitungwiza Municipality has also instructed all district offices to immediately stop issuing permits related to pool table operations pending a review of existing authorisations.

“Furthermore, Chitungwiza Municipality has directed all district offices to immediately cease issuing permits relating to pool tables pending a review of existing permits,” Nemuseso said.

The move is expected to affect operators seeking to establish new pool table businesses within the municipality.

The local authority said the enforcement campaign forms part of broader efforts to combat the growing problem of drug and substance abuse within the town. Among the initiatives being pursued are plans to establish a day-care rehabilitation centre at Utano in Zengeza 4 and a 24-hour rehabilitation facility at Tatenda Tavern.

According to the municipality, the centres will provide treatment, counselling, rehabilitation, and reintegration services for individuals battling substance abuse, with a particular focus on young people. Residents have been encouraged to report illegal drug-related activities to the relevant authorities and participate in community efforts aimed at protecting young people from substance abuse. The directive follows a resolution adopted during the 508th Ordinary Council Meeting of the Municipality of Chitungwiza, held on 15 June 2026.

Chitungwiza illegal pool tables