According to the chief director of Immigration, Respect Gono, the
agreement seeks to integrate Zimbabwean security systems with Interpol
databases, allowing for enhanced surveillance and identification
capabilities at borders.

The collaboration is expected to significantly reduce the entry of
international criminals into Zimbabwe, thereby making the country a
safer destination for both citizens and visitors.

“Our combined efforts in embracing contemporary technology in the form
of INTERPOL databases will go a long way in fighting crime in our
country, ultimately making Zimbabwe a safe destination,” said Gono.

Highlighting the importance of the collaboration, Gono said, “The
sophisticated nature of Transnational Organized Crime (TOCs) such as
trafficking, smuggling, fraud, and cybercrimes poses a significant
threat to national security. Our enhanced cooperation with INTERPOL will
enable us to effectively counter these threats.”

Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Zimbabwe
Republic Police (ZRP), Chrispen Charumbira, said the new system will
provide direct access to vital information on wanted persons, missing
persons, stolen or lost passports, and stolen motor vehicles.

“This will be facilitated through INTERPOL’s secure global communication
system, which offers real-time data sharing capabilities,” he said.

“I would like to reiterate that our combined efforts in the embracing of
contemporary technology in the form of Interpol databases will go a long
way in fighting crime in our country, which will ultimately make
Zimbabwe a safe destination.”

The partnership also aligns with Zimbabwe’s National Migration Policy,
which focuses on secure borders, inter-state and regional cooperation,
as well as the modernization of border management systems.

By leveraging INTERPOL’s advanced applications, including Advance
Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR), Zimbabwe
aims to identify potential security threats more effectively and ensure
a crime-free environment.

As Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its security measures, the
partnership with INTERPOL is expected to bring about a significant
positive impact, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for the
country, which aspires to attain upper-middle income status by 2030.

New Ziana