Mapping the spatial variations in crime in rural Zimbabwe using geographic information systems

Understanding the distribution and densities of crimes is of importance in order to facilitate the development of investigation preference strategies for policing. Within the Zimbabwean context, less attention has been given to the applicability of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in crime mapping. In this study, we determined crime densities and crime hotspots and clusters in rural Zimbabwe using Geo-spatial technologies. Data were collected using mobile Global Positioning Systems and interviews. Moran's I was used to determine crime clustering and Gertis similar to Ord statistic was used to determine crime hotspots in Chivi district. Results show that crime densities of 4.6 were located at Chivi growth point and low crime densities (1.15) were found as distance from the growth point increases. Significant high-high crime clusters were located in wards 11, 15 and 30 (Chivi growth point). Crime hotspots at 99% confidence level were located in ward 11, 12, 15 and 30. The results of the study indicated that crime hotspots and clusters were distributed around Chivi growth point and this will help the law enforcement agents in establishing beat patrols in the problematic areas to curb crime and safeguard life and property.