AT a time when many companies are tightening budgets and scaling back community sponsorships, Harare-based LM Auctioneers is earning recognition from senior police commanders for its continued investment in the welfare and development of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officers.
The company’s latest contribution came through the successful hosting of the 2026 LM Auctioneers CID Football Tournament, which brought together nine teams from CID stations and specialist units across Harare.
While the competition ended with CID CAP defeating CID HQ Rangers 1-0 in the final at Mukushi Academy on Sunday, police leaders said the event’s real value went far beyond the result on the scoreboard.
For LM Auctioneers founder Lewis Muzhara, the tournament is part of a broader commitment to supporting the men and women who work behind the scenes to keep communities safe.
Speaking at the event, guest of honour Chief Superintendent Austin Chikwababa praised the company for standing by detectives despite a difficult operating environment.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our sponsor, LM Auctioneers, who despite the harsh economic climate has chosen to associate with the detectives from various CID stations in a spirit of sports and recreation,” he said.
Chikwababa described the sponsorship as an important investment in the physical and mental wellbeing of officers who face daily pressures in the line of duty.
Unlike many professions, policing often demands long hours, exposure to traumatic incidents and the constant pursuit of dangerous suspects. Against that backdrop, sporting activities have become an important outlet for officers to maintain their fitness, relieve stress and strengthen teamwork.
“Dutiful and energetic police officers are developed through sports. Criminals are always there to put to test the fitness of police officers and some of them turn violent whilst having to be chased,” said Chikwababa.
He added that the benefits of sport extend beyond physical conditioning.
“Sports participation enhances mental and physical wellness by reducing stress, improving mood and fostering resilience. For police officers, prioritising mental health through sports improves decision-making, relationships and overall job performance.”
The senior officer used the occasion to call on more businesses to support initiatives aimed at strengthening the police service, arguing that public safety should be viewed as a shared responsibility.
“The gesture by the business community in the fight against crime is highly appreciated,” he said.
“I call upon the business community to emulate LM Auctioneers and join hands with the police by sponsoring various police programmes aimed at improving the police physically, mentally and spiritually.”
His remarks underscored a growing belief that partnerships between law enforcement and the private sector can deliver benefits that extend beyond the organisations directly involved.
“Provision of security is not a cheap commodity. You really have to invest in it one way or the other and the benefits will be there for all of us to see,” Chikwababa said.
For many officers in attendance, the tournament provided a rare opportunity to step away from investigations and operational demands and connect with colleagues in a relaxed environment.
