Staff Reporter
ZIMBABWE experienced a sharp rise in drug offences in the last quarter of 2025, with statistics reaching 11 926, data from the Zimbabwe National Statistical Agency (ZimStat) shows.
Drug and substance abuse in Zimbabwe has reached crisis levels, with approximately 79% of citizens reporting it as widespread in their communities, particularly among youth. Driven by high unemployment and economic hardships, commonly abused substances include cannabis, crystal meth, and cough syrups.
The most reported crimes are theft, 37 680, followed by assault and threats, with a total of 29 975 and drug offences which stood at 11 926. Males accounted for the bulk of offenders
Overall, the stats show that crimes in general registered a marginal increase the surge highlights deepening social and economic strains across the country, with theft, assault and drug-related offences threatening personal safety, straining families and burdening law enforcement. Rising crime not only disrupts daily life but also underscores the urgent need for evidence-based policies and interventions to protect communities.
The spike follows a 3,5% rise in the second quarter of 2025, when reported criminal cases rose to 321 640 from 310 876 in the previous quarter. The figures are based on data from the Zimbabwe Republic Police Crime Report and Disposal System.
The most reported crimes are theft, 37 680, followed by assault and threats, with a total of 29 975 and drug offences which stood at 11 926. Males accounted for the bulk of offenders.
“The police recorded 426 946 offences from October to December 2025, a 12,1% increase from 380 727 in the third quarter of 2025.
“In total, 367 557 persons were charged with criminal offences, with males accounting for 88% of the total. The overall charge rate was 2 421, 5 per 100 000 population, up from 2 136,4 recorded in the third quarter of 2025. The rate for males (4 438,7 per 100 000) was nearly eight times higher than that for females (557,8 per 100 000),” the report read.
