Staff Reporter
CHITUNGWIZA – The Municipality of Chitungwiza has ordered the removal of all pool tables operating at unauthorized locations within seven working days, citing growing concerns that some of the facilities are being used as centres for drug dealing and substance abuse, particularly among young people.
In a public notice issued on June 16, 2026, the municipality said it had noted “with great concern the proliferation of pool tables at undesignated locations,” including residential areas, overnight parking sites, tuckshops, shebeens, road servitudes and public transport termini.
The local authority warned that reports linking some of the facilities to illicit activities had prompted urgent action.
“The Municipality has received reports that some of these facilities are being used as centres for drug dealing and substance abuse activities, particularly among young people. Such activities pose a threat to public safety, community well-being and the future of our youth,” reads part of the notice.
The Municipality directed operators of pool tables located at unauthorized sites to remove them, together with any related illegal structures, within seven working days from the date of the notice.
According to the directive, failure to comply will result in the confiscation of the pool tables and the implementation of other enforcement measures permitted by law.
“Failure to comply with this directive will result in the Municipality confiscating the pool tables and taking any other enforcement measures permitted by law. The Municipality will work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure full compliance,” the notice states.
The Municipality has also ordered all district offices to immediately stop issuing permits related to pool tables while existing permits undergo review.
As part of broader efforts to tackle drug and substance abuse, Chitungwiza Municipality announced plans to establish a day-care rehabilitation centre at Utano in Zengeza 4 and a 24-hour rehabilitation centre at Tatenda Tavern.
“These facilities are intended to provide treatment, counselling, rehabilitation and reintegration support to individuals affected by drug and substance abuse, particularly young people,” the municipality said.
Residents have been encouraged to support the initiative by reporting illegal activities linked to drugs and substance abuse and participating in community programmes aimed at protecting and empowering young people.
The directive follows a resolution adopted during the Municipality of Chitungwiza’s 508th Ordinary Council Meeting held on June 15, 2026, and was signed by Acting Town Clerk Japson Nemuseso.
