Harare, (New Ziana) – Police have rolled out a massive nationwide safety and security operation ahead of the Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day commemorations, warning motorists, public transport operators, and the public to strictly observe the law or face tough penalties.
Commissioner-General of Police, Stephen Mutamba said the holidays, set for Monday 11 August and Tuesday 12 August, should be marked in peace and without incidents that endanger lives or disrupt public order.
“As the nation celebrates the forthcoming Heroes and Defence Forces Holidays, my office calls upon all Zimbabweans to observe peace throughout the period in order to assist in the maintenance of law and order,” Mutamba said in a statement posted on the ZRP’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday.
He said the ZRP had deployed officers countrywide to conduct roadblocks, stop-and-search blitzes, patrols, and public awareness campaigns.
The clampdown will target unroadworthy vehicles, unregistered cars, and those fitted with illegal accessories such as blue lights, sirens, and bar lights.
“The recent Seke Road accident in Chitungwiza is a clarion call for vehicle safety to be prioritised through regular servicing and maintenance. No vehicle should be driven on the roads with mechanical defects,” he warned, adding that all unroadworthy vehicles and those without number plates will be impounded.
Mutamba also reminded motorists that only the Presidium is authorised to use blue lights and sirens, while ambulances may use red lights and sirens strictly in emergencies. Vehicles fitted with illegal bar lights in violation of Statutory Instrument 129 of 2015 will also be seized.
Public transport operators were ordered to strictly comply with their route permits and passenger limits.
“The act of speeding, overtaking in unsafe situations and overloading vehicles will be severely dealt with,” said Mutamba, stressing that operators who employ touts or allow them to harass passengers will be held accountable.
Beyond road safety, the ZRP is deploying specialised crack teams to tackle robbery syndicates and drug peddlers, which Mutamba described as a growing menace affecting both the youth and the elderly.
He urged companies and individuals to deposit cash with banks to minimise robbery risks and ensure premises are well secured.
“The public should feel free to report anyone committing crime, driving recklessly and peddling drugs at any nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk,” he said.
New Ziana
