Harare, (New Ziana) – As the new school term kicks off across the country, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is making a clarion call to parents, guardians, school authorities and the general public to prioritize the safety and security of children.

In a statement on Monday, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said ensuring the safety of learners during their journeys to and from school is of paramount importance.

He urged transport operators to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and certified as safe for carrying passengers, particularly children.

“Drivers should exercise caution, avoid speeding, and comply with all road rules and regulations to prevent road traffic accidents,” he said.

Nyathi added that police were particularly concerned about the risks associated with children traveling at night.

“Parents and school authorities must ensure that learners do not travel after dark, as this can expose them to various dangers, including road traffic accidents,” he said.

In addition to ensuring safe transport, Nyathi advised school authorities to deposit school fees and tuition-related costs at financial institutions rather than keeping large sums of cash on school premises.

He highlighted that large amounts of cash attract criminal attention, increasing the risk of robbery and theft.

“Criminals often gather information from individuals close to school authorities and staff, exploiting this information to target schools. Therefore, it is essential for school authorities to be cautious in how financial transactions are conducted,” he said.

Nyathi also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police immediately.

New Ziana