By Jori Kigezzi
Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has taken action against individuals forcing children to beg on the streets of Harare. Following a viral video exposing the abuse of these children, police have removed 22 children and their guardians from the city center and handed them over to the Social Welfare Department.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, showed children being mistreated by their guardians for failing to meet daily begging targets. Police and social welfare officials conducted a joint operation in the Harare CBD, focusing on areas known for child begging, such as Joina City and Town House.
In a statement, the ZRP urged guardians to refrain from using children and disabled individuals for begging purposes. They warned that such actions violate child protection laws and can result in arrests.
“Reference is made to a video which went viral on social media platforms in which children are seen begging for money near Joina City, Harare CBD.
“Police, in conjunction with the Department of Social Welfare carried out an operation in the streets of Harare CBD removing children and their guardians who were begging for food in Harare CBD, particularly along Rezende, Joina City and Town House areas
“As a result, 22 children and their guardians were handed over to the Social Welfare Department,” the police statement reads.
