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The battle of customs fraud in Zimbabwe’s trade sector continues ( image source ) A Harare businesswoman is currently facing grave legal challenges after allegedly falsifying import declarations, resulting in nearly US $80,000  in lost revenue for the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). The case has raised eyebrows among authorities and the business community alike, revealing a troubling trend of customs fraud in the country amidst growing economic pressures. Rutendo Hazel Chiveso, 42, the director of Genemax Logistics (Pvt) Ltd , appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court on charges of violating the Customs and Excise Act . According to prosecutors, Chiveso incorrectly declared two containers as containing agricultural implements. However, upon inspection, authorities discovered the containers were filled with clothing and household goods. “The false declarations led to a loss of US $79,986.58 in import duty and VAT,”  revealed a ZIMRA representative. The severity of the allegations underscores the crucial role accurate import declarations play in maintaining the integrity of the revenue collection process. Legal analysts note that cases like this one could set significant precedents for how ZIMRA and the courts handle customs fraud moving forward. Chiveso was granted bail and is scheduled to reappear in court on September 30 . During this upcoming hearing, the state plans to present a comprehensive array of evidence, including falsified invoices, bills of lading, and witness testimonies. Such evidence is deemed essential for building a strong case against her and pursuing any necessary penalties. Broader Implications Chiveso’s case is not isolated; it is part of a troubling trend that has emerged within Zimbabwe’s import and export sectors. Reports indicate that authorities have been witnessing a rise in customs violations, with other businesses like Genesesi Logistics  also facing allegations of evading duties—reportedly sidestepping over US $40,000  in dues. “We’re seeing more sophisticated schemes, often involving forged documents and shell companies,”  said a compliance officer from ZIMRA. This observation speaks to the growing complexity in the tactics employed by businesses attempting to circumvent tax obligations. As economic conditions continue to tighten, the pressure to reduce operating costs through illicit means may become more pronounced, making it vital for ZIMRA to counteract these trends effectively. The financial implications of such tax violations are profound. The loss of nearly US $80,000  in revenue for ZIMRA reflects not just a singular instance of fraud but a larger systemic issue that affects public finances, social services, and infrastructure development. With Zimbabwe grappling with inflation and a challenging foreign exchange environment, every dollar matters in the fiscal landscape. Moreover, tax evasion practices create an uneven playing field in the business community. Legitimate businesses that comply with customs laws find themselves at a disadvantage when competing against enterprises that employ dishonest tactics to lower their costs. This environment undermines the principles of fair competition and could discourage potential investors from entering the market. ZIMRA’s capacity to monitor and enforce compliance within the customs framework will be put to the test as cases like Chiveso's unfold. Regulatory authorities may need to amplify their strategies to ensure that customs fraud is curtailed effectively. This may involve increased surveillance of import activities, more rigorous audits, and collaboration with international customs organizations to share intelligence on suspected fraudulent practices. In light of these challenges, business owners are encouraged to maintain transparency in their operations to avoid falling into the trap of unlawful practices. By adhering to established customs regulations, they can ensure the sustainability of their businesses while contributing positively to the nation’s economy.

Job Sikhala ( image source ) In a chilling act of political violence, the home of opposition leader Job Sikhala  was bombed in the early hours of August 30, 2025. The attack took place in Chitungwiza while Sikhala was in South Africa launching his autobiography, Footprints in the Chains . “The bombing was targeting to kill my children,”  Sikhala stated. “My family has not received any feedback from the police.” Thankfully, only Sikhala’s children were home at the time, and they escaped unharmed. The Zimbabwe Republic Police swiftly deployed a homicide unit and bomb disposal team to secure the scene. Pattern of Intimidation Security analysts and civil society groups warn that this attack reflects a growing pattern of intimidation against opposition figures. Sikhala has previously endured 595 days of detention without bail  and has been arrested 68 times without a single conviction . “This is not just an assault on my family—it’s an attack on all Zimbabweans who value democracy,”  Sikhala declared. At his book launch in Masvingo, suspected ZANU-PF youth disrupted the event, assaulted guests, and seized copies of the book. Police allegedly refused to act, despite multiple complaints. Calls for Accountability Human Rights Watch has called on Zimbabwean authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the bombing. “Authorities should take all necessary steps to protect Job Sikhala, his family, and other critics of the government,”  stated Idriss Nassah , Senior Researcher at HRW. Neighbours in Chitungwiza expressed shock, describing the attack as unprecedented. Rudo Mavhunga , a local resident, emphasized: “We need security. This could happen to any of us.” The incident has reignited discussions about political violence, law enforcement accountability, and the safety of opposition figures in Zimbabwe .

The Russian, Indian and Chinese Leaders ( image source ) As global dynamics shift amid economic upheavals and changing alliances, a new trilateral partnership is quietly gaining momentum: the Russia–India–China (RIC) format. Renewed calls for cooperation among these regional powerhouses are stimulating discussions on their capacity to reshape global governance, trade norms, and security frameworks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has recently advocated for a revival of the RIC format, which was originally proposed by Yevgeny Primakov in the late 1990s. The intent behind this initiative is to provide a counterbalance to Western dominance and push for a multipolar world order. This renewed attempt signals a recognition of the need for collaboration among these influential nations in an increasingly polarized world. “RIC offers a space for structured dialogue on shared concerns—without the constraints of bloc politics,” explained Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs. This sentiment highlights a belief that a collective approach can yield solutions to pressing issues while avoiding the rigidity often seen in other international partnerships. India’s engagement with RIC reflects its broader strategic autonomy doctrine, which seeks to balance relations with Western allies, notably through the Quad, and Eastern counterparts via platforms such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). For China, the RIC format serves as a hedge against the increasing economic pressures from the U.S., especially in light of escalating tariffs. Meanwhile, Russia sees the partnership as a vital diplomatic lifeline amid growing isolation from Western nations. The recent SCO summit in Tianjin highlighted the burgeoning camaraderie among the leaders of India, Russia, and China. Images of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaging warmly circulated widely on social media. Modi’s friendly gestures with both leaders were interpreted as more than just symbolic; they hinted at potential realignments in geopolitical strategies. “Trump’s tariffs mark the inflection point for the birth of a new world order,” noted Lt Gen Satish Dua (ret.), emphasizing how economic pressures are spurring nations to reconsider their alliances and policy directions. India’s persistent oil imports from Russia and its defiance against U.S. trade pressures illustrate its shift toward multipolar diplomacy. Former Indian foreign secretary Nirupama Rao encapsulated this sentiment, stating: “India is a titan in chrysalis—too large and ambitious to bind itself to any single great power.” This assertion reflects India’s desire to carve out an independent role on the global stage, untethered from any one power's influence. As RIC strengthens its framework, the implications for global governance could be profound. Each country brings distinct strengths: Russia's vast resources, India’s burgeoning market, and China’s manufacturing prowess. Together, they could leverage these assets to influence international policies and create alternative trade routes and security alliances. The potential for RIC to affect global governance also extends to areas such as climate change, technology standards, and cultural exchanges. Their collective voice could amplify demands for a more equitable distribution of power in international institutions that currently favor Western hegemony. The emergence of a robust RIC alliance suggests that the world may be moving toward a more multipolar era. This shift poses questions about the future of existing alliances such as NATO and the effectiveness of traditional power structures. The ongoing collaboration among these three nations could inspire other countries to seek similar alignments based on shared interests rather than rigid ideological lines. However, challenges remain. Historical rivalries, differing political systems, and conflicting national interests could hinder the progress of the RIC alliance. Balancing these diverse perspectives will be crucial for maintaining unity and achieving common goals. The revival of the Russia–India–China format marks a significant turning point in global diplomacy. As these three nations seek to redefine their roles on the world stage, they could potentially reshape global rules governing trade, security, and governance—ushering in a new era of international relations. The path ahead will require careful navigation of complex dynamics, but if successful, RIC may play a pivotal role in forming a more balanced and multipolar world.

The Global Sumud Flotilla at sea ( image source ) A civilian flotilla carrying humanitarian aid and over 350 activists—including climate icon Greta Thunberg—has departed Barcelona for Gaza, aiming to break Israel’s long-standing naval blockade. Dubbed the Global Sumud Flotilla , this is the largest coordinated maritime mission to Gaza in history. The flotilla, comprising over 50 vessels from 44 countries, is expected to converge in Tunis before heading east toward Gaza. Organizers say the journey will take 7–8 days, covering over 3,000 km. “We are sailing again to break the siege and open up a humanitarian corridor,”  Thunberg said in a video message. The mission was briefly delayed due to stormy weather, with winds exceeding 56 kph forcing the boats to return to Barcelona on August 31. They resumed their journey the following evening. Among those aboard are prominent activists and personalities: Greta Thunberg (Swedish climate activist), Mandla Mandela (grandson of Nelson Mandela, leading the South African delegation), Ada Colau (former Mayor of Barcelona), and Liam Cunningham (actor from Game of Thrones ). “What sort of world have we slid into where children are making their own funeral arrangements?”  — Liam Cunningham, referencing a Gaza child’s viral video. Israel has intercepted similar flotillas in the past, including the infamous Mavi Marmara  incident in 2010. This time, Israeli officials have warned they will block the boats again, citing security concerns. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, citing famine and mass displacement. “Israel has carried out acts prohibited under the Genocide Convention,”  said Agnes Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International. “This is not a stunt. It’s a lifeline.” — Saif Abukeshek, Palestinian Activist The flotilla is expected to reach Gaza waters around September 14–15 , coinciding with the UN General Assembly in New York —a strategic move to maximize global attention. Israel’s response remains uncertain, but activists vow to continue their mission, even if intercepted.

The Newly appointed Dr Misheck Sibanda ( image source ) In a strategic move to revitalize Zimbabwe’s struggling rail infrastructure, former Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Misheck Sibanda  has been appointed as the new chairperson of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) board. This announcement, confirmed by Transport Minister Felix Mhona , is part of a broader government initiative aimed at modernizing the NRZ and attracting private investment into the sector. “Dr Sibanda brings decades of administrative experience and strategic insight. His leadership will be crucial in steering NRZ toward viability,”  Minister Mhona expressed. His appointment signals a shift toward technocratic leadership in parastatals long plagued by mismanagement and underfunding. Dr Sibanda’s extensive career in public service culminated in his retirement in 2023 after serving as Chief Secretary since 2003. His tenure saw him coordinating government operations and policy implementations under both Presidents Robert Mugabe  and Emmerson Mnangagwa . His wealth of experience is seen as pivotal in navigating the complexities of revitalizing NRZ amidst external challenges and internal bureaucratic inefficiencies. His leadership role at NRZ indicates a renewed focus on qualified, experienced individuals taking on significant roles within state-owned enterprises, as the government works towards striking a balance between political appointees and experts in their fields. The NRZ has faced years of decline primarily due to aging infrastructure, corruption, and lack of capital. Freight volumes have dropped drastically, while passenger services remain notoriously unreliable. The situation calls for a comprehensive turnaround strategy. “We need a turnaround strategy that includes public-private partnerships, digital modernization, and regional integration,”  noted transport economist Dr Tapiwa Nyoni . This underscores the urgency for innovation and accountability as NRZ strives to regain stakeholder confidence in its operations. Dr Sibanda is now faced with a formidable task. His immediate priorities include rehabilitating key rail corridors such as the Harare–Bulawayo line , attracting foreign direct investment, enhancing safety and operational efficiency, and rebuilding public trust in rail transport. These elements are essential if NRZ is to recover and become a reliable mode of transport for both passengers and freight. The public reaction to Dr Sibanda’s appointment has been largely positive. Industry stakeholders have warmly welcomed the news. “Dr Sibanda is a seasoned administrator. We hope he can bring stability and vision to NRZ,”  said Linda Chikomo , spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Chamber of Commerce. This sentiment reflects a collective hope that the NRZ can overcome its historical challenges and emerge as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s transport infrastructure.

Now in human trials, it could revolutionize dentistry and be available by 2030 ( image source ) In a medical breakthrough that could redefine dentistry, Japanese researchers have developed a drug—TRG-035—that can regrow human teeth. The drug, now in human trials at Kyoto University Hospital, has shown promising results in animal studies and could be available to the public by 2030. “The idea of growing new teeth is every dentist’s dream,” said Dr. Katsu Takahashi, lead researcher at the Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital in Osaka. TRG-035 targets a protein called USAG-1, which naturally inhibits the growth of additional teeth beyond childhood. By blocking USAG-1, the drug reactivates dormant tooth buds—embryonic precursors to new teeth. It works by removing the barrier to tooth regeneration, which leads to dormant buds beginning to grow new teeth. The drug is administered via injection for systemic circulation. “This drug could be a game-changer for children born without permanent teeth,” said Dr. Chengfei Zhang, clinical professor at the University of Hong Kong. Before human trials, TRG-035 was tested on mice, ferrets, and dogs—all of which successfully grew new teeth. Ferrets, whose dental structure closely resembles humans, developed fully functional teeth. “We were over the moon when we saw the results in ferrets,” Takahashi added. The Phase 1 trial involves 30 adults aged 30–64 who are missing at least one tooth. The primary goal is to assess safety and dosage. If successful, future trials will include children with congenital tooth agenesis. Dr. Katsu Takahashi: The Pioneer of Tooth Regrowth ( image source ) “Expectations are high that our technology can directly extend healthy life expectancy,” Takahashi said. With over 90% of Japanese seniors missing at least one tooth, TRG-035 could revolutionize dental care worldwide. Experts caution, however, that widespread use will require years of testing and regulatory approval. “This is not a sprint—it’s a series of ultra-marathons,” said Professor Angray Kang of Queen Mary University.

A congregation of Mapostori worshipers ( image source ) A group of Zimbabwean Mapositori congregants were forcibly removed from a plot in Pretoria West last week after illegally occupying the land to establish a temporary church. The incident has reignited debate over land rights, religious freedom, and urban planning in South Africa. “They just appeared overnight with tents and drums. No permits, no consultation,” said local resident Sipho Mthembu. The group, part of an Apostolic sect known for their white garments and open-air worship, erected tents on municipal land near WF Nkomo Street. Within hours, services began—complete with loud music and large gatherings. “We were holding a revival. We didn’t know it was illegal,” said congregant Pastor Munyaradzi Chikafu. Tshwane Metro Police and municipal officials arrived two days later, citing violations of zoning laws and public safety regulations. The group was ordered to vacate the site immediately. “We respect religious freedom, but it must operate within the law,” said Tshwane spokesperson Lindokuhle Maseko. Local residents expressed frustration over the disruption and lack of consultation. Some accused the congregants of exploiting religion to bypass legal processes. “This is not about faith. It’s about accountability,” said community activist Thandiwe Mahlangu. Zimbabwe’s Apostolic sects have expanded across southern Africa, often clashing with local regulations. In South Africa, informal worship spaces have increasingly led to legal disputes and evictions. “We need dialogue between municipalities and religious groups,” said sociologist Dr. Phillip Musoni. The group now faces fines and possible deportation for violating immigration and land use laws. Lawyers representing the congregants argue that the eviction lacked due process. “They were not given time to appeal or relocate,” said attorney Petros Nyathi. As urban spaces become more contested, experts urge religious groups to engage with local authorities before establishing places of worship. “Faith must coexist with civic order,” said urban planner Nomsa Dlamini.

The Mbare Musika Market Hub ( image source ) Tensions are reaching a boiling point at the newly reconstructed Mbare Musika Market, Zimbabwe's largest informal trade hub. Vendors are accusing ZANU-PF-linked officials and Masimba Holdings—a firm contracted under the “Building Back Better” initiative—of extortion and arbitrary exclusion, prompting a bold appeal directly to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. In a striking move, traders bypassed Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe, sending a letter to Chiwenga: “Knowing your warm heart, we are looking forward to your usual assistance.” — signed by market leaders Roderick Maposah, Josiah Rovai, and Stephen Tsopo. The vendors complain that stall sizes shrank drastically—from 2.5m x 2m to just 1.2m x 1.2m—while monthly rent surged to US$200, compared to the former US$25 council rate. Many traders, including the elderly and those from child-headed households, say they have been priced out of their livelihoods. Sources say Minister Garwe, a staunch Mnangagwa loyalist, was angered by the direct appeal to Chiwenga and subsequently formed a task force. However, its mission ended without resolutions—an outcome traders described succinctly: “No agreement, no outcome.” Political analysts point to deeper fissures within ZANU-PF, interpreting the traders’ appeal to Chiwenga—seen as a potential successor—as a subtle political maneuver. The market, they argue, has become a symbolic political arena. Chief Director Nathan Nkomo denied that Masimba Holdings had privatised the market, describing it instead as a tripartite arrangement between government, city council, and the company. He also revealed a temporary concession reducing monthly rent to US$80, down from US$120, for those displaced by the 2024 fire. Traders, however, insist that actual implementation has been inconsistent.

Global Sumud Flotilla Ships on standby ( image source ) In a bold act of defiance against one of the world’s longest-running blockades, more than 50 ships from 44 countries have departed European and North African ports, bound for Gaza. Known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, the mission blends humanitarian aid with political symbolism, as participants hope to force international attention back onto Israel’s siege of the Palestinian enclave. The fleet carries doctors, lawmakers, artists, and activists from six continents. Departures from Spain, Italy, Greece, and Tunisia have been staggered to evade surveillance, with coordinators aiming for a mid-September landfall in Gaza. “Our boats carry more than aid. They carry a message: the siege must end,” said Saif Abukeshek, a Palestinian activist and flotilla spokesperson. Prominent names onboard include Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, Brazilian socio-environmentalist Thiago Ávila, Malaysian humanitarian Muhammad Nadir al-Nuri, and delegations from South Africa, Norway, and Australia. The flotilla is co-organised by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Maghreb Sumud Convoy, and two Mediterranean solidarity networks. Their legal teams argue the voyage is protected under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which guarantees free navigation in international waters. Israel, however, has branded the flotilla a “media provocation.” Past efforts to reach Gaza have ended in violence. In 2010, Israeli commandos stormed the Mavi Marmara, killing nine activists. More recent flotillas have been met with drone flyovers, arrests, and forced diversions to Ashdod port. A visual of the journey at hand “The greater danger lies not in confronting Israel at sea, but in allowing genocide to continue with impunity,” said Melanie Schweizer, one of the flotilla’s European organisers. With the Gaza war entering its second year, the humanitarian crisis has deepened. The UN estimates 80% of Gaza’s population is displaced, hospitals lack electricity, and malnutrition is rampant. Aid groups warn that without large-scale relief, the enclave faces famine. Beyond the ships themselves, the flotilla has sparked a wave of coordinated protests in 44 countries. Tens of thousands have pledged to march in synchronised demonstrations as the fleet approaches Gaza. Political scientist Dr. Hanan Ashrawi frames the effort as “an attempt to break the silence of governments by mobilising the conscience of ordinary people.” Yet Western capitals remain cautious. While EU officials have defended humanitarian principles, they have stopped short of supporting the flotilla, citing “regional security risks.” Whether the flotilla reaches Gaza or not, its organisers see the voyage itself as victory. “This is people-to-people diplomacy,” said Abukeshek. “Even if Israel blocks us, the world will know the siege is not forgotten.” For critics, the danger is that symbolism may eclipse delivery. But for Palestinians in Gaza, the sight of dozens of ships sailing in their name carries its own weight.

Greta Thunberg onboard her Global Flotilla ( image source ) Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg is facing potential imprisonment in Israel, with authorities reportedly preparing to classify her as a “terrorist” following her participation in the Global Sumud Flotilla—a maritime mission aimed at delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Thunberg, 22, joined over 200 international activists aboard a fleet of ships departing Barcelona on August 31, 2025, in what organizers call “the largest solidarity mission in history.” The flotilla seeks to “break the illegal siege of Gaza” and deliver food, medicine, and water to Palestinians suffering under what the UN has described as “catastrophic” conditions. “This story is not about us sailing. It’s about Palestine. It’s about how people are being deliberately deprived of the very basic means to survive,” Thunberg told reporters in Barcelona. Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has proposed a controversial plan to detain flotilla participants—including Thunberg—in “terrorist-level conditions” at the notorious Ktzi’ot and Damon detention centrese. The plan includes seizing vessels and converting them into police assets and prolonged custody without access to media or quality meals. It also includes documentation linking activists to “terror groups” via photos and affiliations. “Following several weeks at Ktzi’ot and Damon, they’ll be sorry about the time they arrived here,” said a source close to Ben-Gvir. The move has sparked international outrage, with human rights groups warning that criminalizing humanitarian missions sets a dangerous precedent. Thunberg’s participation has drawn support from celebrities like Liam Cunningham and former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau. European lawmakers have also joined the mission, asserting its legality under international maritime law. “It is not antisemitic to say that we should not be bombing people,” Thunberg told Sky News, defending her stance. Israel has intercepted two similar flotillas this year, detaining and deporting activists. The latest mission, however, is larger and more coordinated—raising diplomatic stakes.

Earlier this year, armed robbers raided a club in broad daylight ( image source ) Residents of Zimbabwe’s second-largest city are living in fear following a spate of violent armed robberies that rattled communities last week. Within just a few hours on Wednesday, three separate incidents were reported in different parts of the city, leaving behind traumatised victims, mounting economic losses, and renewed questions about urban safety. According to Bulawayo acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, the first incident occurred in Nkulumane 12 where a 34-year-old man was confronted by two armed men while driving home. “The suspects, armed with pistols, fired shots into the air before making off with the victim's vehicle, which contained cash and personal belongings worth a total of US$7,030,” Ndlovu said. Later the same evening, around 8 p.m., two masked men forced their way into an apartment in Bulawayo’s central business district. The 37-year-old resident was subdued, tied hand and foot, and robbed of US$5,000 and two mobile phones. The third robbery, striking less than an hour later in Hillside, targeted a security guard. Three armed men stormed the property, tied up the guard, and looted around US$6,000 in cash before disappearing into the night. While police were quick to respond to the reports, the chilling similarities between the attacks have raised speculation of a coordinated syndicate. All incidents involved armed men operating with military-style precision, overwhelming their victims and making clean getaways. “Urban armed robberies are not random acts of desperation anymore,” criminologist Dr. Shepherd Ndlovu, a lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, said. “They are increasingly carried out by organised gangs who plan, surveil, and strike with confidence—often aware that the chances of being caught are low.” The targeting of both individuals and businesses underscores a worrying trend: armed gangs are diversifying their crime to include carjackings, home invasions, and cash robberies. For residents, these crimes are not just about the monetary loss—they are a psychological siege. Fear has become palpable in the city’s suburbs, with locals whispering about “unknown men” prowling at night. “I no longer walk home after dark,” said a Bulawayo CBD shop assistant, who requested anonymity. “These days, you don’t know whether that car following you is a kombi, or criminals waiting for the right moment.” The police have increased patrols in crime-prone areas, but the public remains sceptical. “We only see them after something has happened,” complained a Nkulumane resident. Analysts link the spike in robberies to Zimbabwe’s deteriorating economy, where cash-based transactions remain dominant. With many households and businesses avoiding banks due to liquidity issues, large sums of cash are kept in cars, homes, and shops—making them ripe targets for criminals. “Until Zimbabwe shifts decisively to digital and traceable money, cash robberies will continue to thrive,” argues economist Dr. Godfrey Kanyenze. “The informalisation of the economy means people prefer hard cash, which unfortunately creates opportunities for armed gangs.” Police insist they are “working tirelessly” to bring the perpetrators to book. Yet Zimbabwe’s law enforcement faces several challenges: underfunding, shortage of patrol vehicles, and corruption within some ranks. Former police commissioner Augustine Chihuri, speaking at a 2024 security seminar, noted that urban policing requires “technology-driven intelligence gathering, rapid response units, and citizen partnerships” to be effective. Currently, Bulawayo’s community policing forums are underutilised, and residents complain of delayed responses when crimes are reported. This is not the first time Bulawayo has faced such a crime wave. In 2021, the city recorded a surge in heist-style robberies, many involving former security officers with access to firearms. Police cracked down through sting operations, leading to several arrests. Experts warn that without a similar coordinated strategy now, the current wave could escalate. Civil society groups are calling for more investment in street lighting, CCTV surveillance, and community policing initiatives. Residents have also begun forming informal WhatsApp neighbourhood watch groups to alert each other of suspicious activity. Meanwhile, the public awaits reassurance from the government that urban security is not slipping out of control. As one Hillside resident put it: “We don’t just want statements; we want to feel safe again.” The Bulawayo robberies are more than isolated incidents—they are a symptom of economic strain, weak policing capacity, and organised criminal networks. Whether the authorities can break the cycle remains to be seen. For now, residents live with the uneasy knowledge that another night of violence may be only a heartbeat away.

Alexander Isak scored 27 goals for Newcastle in all competitions in 2024-25 ( image source ) Liverpool stunned the football world on deadline day, completing a record-breaking £130 million move for Swedish striker Alexander Isak  in what analysts describe as “the most dramatic transfer of the decade.” The 25-year-old, who netted 23 goals last season for Newcastle United, signed a six-year deal at Anfield — eclipsing Jack Grealish’s £100m transfer to Manchester City and underlining Liverpool’s determination to mount a title charge under new manager Arne Slot . Behind the scenes, the saga was fractious. Sources in England reported Isak refused to train during August, angered by what he saw as Newcastle’s broken promises on squad investment and Champions League ambitions. Fans in Tyneside are divided, some accusing him of betrayal, others pointing to the Saudi-backed ownership’s failure to meet his expectations. Newcastle, languishing in 17th after a goalless draw with Leeds United, reacted swiftly by signing Stuttgart’s Nick Woltemade . But experts warn replacing Isak’s firepower in the short term is near impossible. Liverpool, meanwhile, embarked on a £250m summer spree, also landing Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Jeremie Frimpong . Slot was emphatic in his welcome: “Alexander gives us goals, intelligence, and flexibility. He is a striker who can redefine how we attack.” Football writer Melissa Reddy  described the coup as “transformational,” saying Liverpool had moved “from transition to title contenders overnight.” The deal pushes the club close to Financial Fair Play limits, though analysts note new sponsorships with Nike and Expedia provide breathing room. Rivals have taken note: City remain calm with Haaland, while Arsenal and Chelsea scramble to keep pace. Tottenham chased Xavi Simons  and Mohammed Kudus , and United settled for late loan reinforcements. For Liverpool fans, the moment is seismic. “This feels like the Suarez or Torres moment all over again — but bigger,” said supporter Amira Khan . The Premier League season is still in its infancy, but one truth stands: Liverpool have placed a billion-pound wager on glory.