Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced a nationwide ban on touting, warning public transport operators that they will be held accountable if they employ or allow touts to harass passengers.

In his Heroes and Defence Forces Holiday statement, Commissioner-General of Police Stephen Mutamba urged Zimbabweans to maintain peace during the holidays, saying police would be out in full force to ensure law and order.

“My office calls upon all Zimbabweans to observe peace throughout the period in order to assist in the maintenance of law and order,” he said.

Mutamba revealed that police officers have been deployed to conduct roadblocks, stop-and-search blitzes, patrols, and awareness campaigns. He urged motorists to strictly observe road rules to curb accidents, citing the recent Seke Road tragedy as a reminder of the importance of vehicle safety.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will therefore impound all unroadworthy vehicles for the safety of Zimbabweans,” he said, adding that vehicles without registration plates would also be seized without exception.

He further warned against the illegal fitting of blue lights, sirens, or bar lights, stressing that such equipment is reserved for authorised vehicles only. “Those found wanting shall be arrested and vehicles impounded,” he stated.

Public Service Vehicle operators were reminded to stick to their route permits, carry only the stipulated number of passengers, and avoid speeding, unsafe overtaking, and overloading.

“Any Public Service Vehicle operator who employs touts or allows them to harass passengers using their company name will be held accountable by the Police,” Mutamba declared.

He also announced the deployment of police crack teams to combat armed robbery syndicates and drug peddlers, calling on the public to report crime, reckless driving, and drug dealing to the nearest police station or through ZRP’s national hotlines.

“Finally, on behalf of the Zimbabwe Republic Police, I wish all Zimbabweans a safe Heroes and Defence Forces Holiday,” Mutamba said.