By Naledi Nyoni
Harare – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has ramped up security measures across the country ahead of the 45th Defence Forces and Heroes Day holidays, with a strong warning to motorists, public transport operators and criminal elements.
National police spokesperson Paul Nyathi in a statement said “adequate manpower” had been dispatched to highways, residential areas and central business districts.
“Decisive action will be taken against motorists who flout road rules and regulations,” Commissioner Nyathi said, adding that vehicles found to be unroadworthy, unregistered, operating without permits or without number plates would be impounded.
The police also warned drivers against operating under the influence of alcohol, stressing that those caught would be arrested.
“The law will take its course,” Nyathi said.
As part of the crackdown, the ZRP is also targeting pirate taxis, locally known as mushika-shika, and warned public transport operators against overloading and the use of touts.
“Some of the touts are engaging in various criminal acts to the detriment of public safety,” said Nyathi.
Police presence will also be heightened in urban areas and hotspots.
“The Commissioner-General of police has directed police commanders to deploy officers to patrol in residential, industrial and Central Business Districts and effect arrests on criminal elements including those peddling drugs and illicit substances,” the statement read.
Crack teams focused on armed robbery will remain on high alert, and members of the public were urged to avoid keeping large sums of cash at home or at business premises.
“Companies and individuals are reminded not to share information on financial transactions or status,” Nyathi said.
Liquor outlets operating outside of legal hours or without licences also face closure, with police appealing to the public to report such cases.
With schools closing for the break, Nyathi urged parents to supervise children closely to prevent drug abuse, sexual exploitation, and other crimes.
“School authorities and parents should avoid night travelling for the safety of pupils,” he added.
