Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
Bulawayo police apprehended 13 individuals, including minors, during a raucous Vuzu party in Cowdray Park in the early hours of Saturday, May 24, 2025.
The arrests followed a midnight patrol by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers, who responded to noise complaints at a seven-roomed house on 5580 Cowdray Park.
Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, Bulawayo’s press and public relations officer, confirmed the incident, stating that the party’s host, 21-year-old Thabiso Sibanda, was among those detained. Sibanda, whose parents reside in Botswana, lives at the property with his sister.
The house, described as gated and surrounded by a durawall, allegedly hosted attendees aged 17 to 21, some of whom were found engaging in suspected drug and substance abuse.
“This is a stark reminder to parents and guardians to actively monitor their children’s activities,” Inspector Msebele warned.
“Such gatherings often lead to unlawful behavior, endangering minors and disrupting communities.”
Arrested alongside Sibanda were Ryan Jena (18), Kingstone Mufunda (17), Mbongeni Shoniwa (17), Blessing Phiri (21), Brian Masengwe (19), Prince Ncube (19), Lethukuthula Moyo (18), Melisa Ncube (18), Mishell Sibanda (18), Princess Khumalo (18) of Emganwini, Tendai Nyandoro (18) of Pumula South, and Prince B. Moyo (18) of Nkulumane.
Inspector Msebele emphasized the risks of underage partying, noting,
“Parents cannot afford to be complacent. When minors are left unsupervised, they are vulnerable to peer pressure and illegal activities.”
Authorities highlighted the absence of Sibanda’s parents as a factor enabling the event, urging relatives to exercise greater responsibility.
Vuzu parties, known for loud music and late-night revelry, have drawn increased police scrutiny in Zimbabwe due to links to substance abuse and public disturbances.
The ZRP reiterated its commitment to cracking down on such gatherings, particularly those involving minors.
“We will continue to enforce order,” Msebele said.
“Community cooperation is critical to safeguarding our youth.”
The suspects are expected to appear in court facing charges related to public nuisance and substance abuse violations.
Zim GBC News©2025