Council gives operators seven days to comply as drug abuse concerns mount

Chitungwiza – The Chitungwiza Municipality has issued a seven-day ultimatum for the removal of all illegal pool tables and related structures, citing growing concerns that the facilities are being used as centres for drug dealing and substance abuse, particularly among young people.

In a public notice dated 16 June 2026, Acting Town Clerk, Japson Nemuseso directed all operators of pool tables located at unauthorised sites to remove them within seven working days, warning that failure to comply would result in confiscation and further enforcement measures.

The directive follows a resolution adopted during the 508th Ordinary Council Meeting held on Monday, 15 June 2026.

“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,” the notice read. “Such activities pose a threat to public safety, community well-being and the future of our youth.”

The council expressed concern over the proliferation of pool tables at undesignated locations, including residential areas, overnight parking sites, tuckshops, shebeens, road servitudes and public transport termini.

In a parallel move, the Municipality has directed all district offices to immediately cease issuing permits relating to pool tables pending a review of existing permits.

As part of broader efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, the council announced plans to establish a day-care rehabilitation centre at Utano in Zengeza 4 and a 24-hour rehabilitation centre at Tatenda Tavern. The 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 it would work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure full compliance with the directive.

Residents were encouraged to support the initiatives by reporting illegal drug activities to relevant authorities and participating in community efforts aimed at protecting and empowering youth.

The development comes as authorities across Zimbabwe intensify efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, which has been identified as a growing crisis affecting communities nationwide.