Harare, (New Ziana) -The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has stepped up road safety and security measures ahead of schools reopening for the third term on Tuesday, warning motorists, transport operators, parents and guardians to take extra precautions as thousands of learners travel back to school.
In a statement issued on Monday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police would intensify traffic enforcement, patrols and other policing operations countrywide to protect learners travelling to and from school.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will intensify road safety and traffic enforcement operations, patrols and other policing measures throughout the country to enhance the safety and security of learners as they travel to and from schools and within their communities,” he said.
The warning comes as learners return from the school holiday, with some expected to travel long distances to boarding schools ahead of the new term.
Comm Nyathi urged parents, guardians and school authorities to ensure that children use safe and reliable transport and, where possible, avoid travelling at night.
He said vehicles used to ferry learners should be roadworthy and suitable for carrying passengers, while drivers must strictly observe road safety regulations.
“Transport operators and drivers are urged not to overload vehicles or carry learners together with goods and luggage in a manner that compromises their safety,” he said.
Drivers were also warned against speeding, reckless overtaking and negligent driving, as well as driving under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs.
The police further appealed to motorists to exercise heightened caution around schools, bus stops, pedestrian crossings and other areas frequented by learners.
Beyond road safety, the ZRP urged schools and parents to remain vigilant against criminal activities that could target learners and educational institutions.
Schools were specifically discouraged from keeping large amounts of cash on their premises, while parents and guardians were encouraged to use banks and other approved financial institutions when paying school fees and other school-related charges.
As schools reopen, police also urged members of the public to promptly report criminal activities, suspicious conduct and traffic violations at their nearest police station.
The measures are intended to ensure a safe start to the third term and minimize risks faced by learners during their journeys to schools and within their communities.
New Ziana
