Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – Police have launched a nationwide crackdown on crime and traffic offences, resulting in the arrest of more than 2 000 suspects within two days.
The operation, which began on July 13, forms part of the police’s broader strategy to combat violent crime, drug and substance abuse, organised criminal activities and rampant traffic law violations.
National police spokesperson, Paul Nyathi, said the operation demonstrates the police’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring motorists and pedestrians complied with the country’s traffic laws.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has launched a nationwide operation targeting crimes of concern and traffic offences as part of its ongoing commitment to maintain law and order, protect lives and property, and enhance road safety across the country,” said Nyathi.
He said police were focusing on serious offences, including murder, attempted murder, robbery, unlawful entry into premises, theft, stock theft, rape, kidnapping, smuggling, assault and drug and substance abuse.
On the roads, Nyathi said, the operation is targeting pirate taxis, commonly known as mushikashika, unregistered and plateless vehicles, drunk driving, unlicensed drivers, dangerous overtaking, failure to obey traffic lights and other reckless driving practices that continue to claim lives.
Nyathi said police had also stepped up patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-search operations, compliance inspections and public awareness campaigns nationwide to reinforce law enforcement.
“We urge members of the public to observe the law, be responsible citizens and support police efforts in the fight against crime. Community cooperation remains critical in maintaining peace, security and order throughout the country,” he said.
According to police statistics, on July 14 alone, 1 809 suspects were arrested during the operation.
The arrests included 63 suspects for unlawful possession of dangerous drugs, 26 for theft, seven for unlawful entry and theft, three for robbery, one for murder and one for stock theft, among other offences.
Nyathi said the cumulative number of arrests since the operation commenced has now reached 2 069, underscoring the impact of the intensified nationwide crackdown.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges members of the public to continue cooperating with the police by reporting criminal activities and traffic violations at their nearest police stations or through the National Complaints Desk.
“Public participation is essential in ensuring safer communities and safer roads,” he said.
The current operation comes as the police continue to intensify law enforcement measures in response to rising concerns over drug and substance abuse, violent crime and increasing cases of reckless driving, particularly involving unregistered vehicles and illegal public transport operators.
New Ziana
