"Operation Restore Order": Harare Municipal Police Round Up 100+ Street Dwellers in CBD Sweep

HARARE — In a coordinated early-morning sweep on Tuesday, April 14, the Harare Metropolitan Police removed over 100 individuals living on the streets of the Central Business District (CBD), transporting them to various state-run and registered care facilities. The operation is the latest in an aggressive campaign by the Ministry of Local Government and provincial authorities to "restore order" to the capital’s sunshine status. The move targeted both adults and minors who have been occupying pavements, shop fronts, and public parks throughout the city center.

According to the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, the crackdown was necessitated by a sharp rise in reported drug abuse and deteriorating sanitary conditions within the CBD.

"Authorities raised concern over rampant drug abuse and growing public health risks such as poor sanitation and theft," the Ministry stated. Officials noted that the presence of makeshift camps had become a "public safety risk," particularly following a series of petty thefts reported by evening commuters.

Key Components of the Recovery Plan:

• Minors: Children rescued during the operation are being placed in registered child care facilities where they will receive basic education and counseling.

• Adult Rehabilitation: Adults are being screened for substance abuse, with the government emphasizing the need for detoxification programs.

• By-law Enforcement: The city is moving toward stricter enforcement of municipal by-laws to prevent the re-establishment of street camps.

While the "round-up" has been welcomed by some business owners who complain of harassment and filth outside their premises, social workers have called for a more sustainable approach.

"Rounding people up is a temporary fix if we don’t address the root causes like poverty and the lack of mental health facilities," says Dr. Tinashe Gumbo, a social policy analyst. "We need dedicated rehabilitation centers and skills training to ensure these individuals do not return to the streets within a week."

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume recently noted that the city’s social services department is working with the Department of Social Welfare to identify "safe houses" that can provide more than just a bed, but a pathway back into society.

By Wednesday morning, several major thoroughfares, including Jason Moyo Avenue and First Street Mall, appeared cleared of street dwellers. Residents have noted an increased presence of municipal police patrols to ensure the "order" is maintained as the city prepares for its 46th Independence Day celebrations this weekend.

Harare municipal police street dwellers operation