Police in Matabeleland South have warned the public against igniting veld fires. The warning comes after the death of 10 people who were battling to put out a raging fire at Rodrose farm, Esigodini in Matabeleland South this week.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with incidents of veld fires in all parts of the country where lives have been lost and property destroyed in situations which clearly show acts of recklessness, negligence and in some cases criminal activities. Those found to be igniting veld fires will be arrested without fear or favour,” Police said in a statement.
There has been a rise on cases of veld fires across the country.
Last month, a Bulawayo city council fire fighter died while trying to put out a veld fire near the National University of Science and Technology.
According to the Environmental Management Agency report, 3 948 fire incidents were recorded burning 1 033 722.86 hectors of land during the 2021 fire season.
