Police in Bulawayo have intercepted a message circulating on social media inviting schoolchildren to a vuzu party in Parklands.
Acting provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele yesterday told Southern Eye that the police were investigating the matter with a view to arresting the organisers.
“Over-excitement of pens down after the exams may result in them engaging in drug and alcohol abuse. We are determined to crack down on illegal parties and those who facilitate them by strictly enforcing the existing laws,” Msebele said.
“Illegal parties organised by schoolchildren pose a direct threat not only to their academic progress but also to their physical and mental well-being, hence it falls upon us all to take decisive action and put an end to this growing menace.”
Msebele added that the illegal gatherings are characterised by drug and substance abuse and explicit sexual acts, creating a dangerous path that distracts children from their studies.
“Vuzu parties clampdown requires a collective effort from all of us. We cannot expect to eradicate illegal parties and the abuse of drugs and alcohol among schoolchildren without actively involving parents, teachers, community leaders, and the students themselves. Let us work together to create a safe and empowering environment for our youths,’’ she said.
In September, police in Bulawayo arrested 14 students from Milton High, Evelyn High and Herentals College, at a vuzu party in Pumula South.
According to the police, the students were found drinking alcohol at a private house while in school uniforms.
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