Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has implemented wide-ranging measures to curb crime and enhance road safety during the 2025 festive season, a period traditionally marked by increased travel, public gatherings and heightened socio-economic activity.

In a statement, Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba said the force had intensified its nationwide visibility to counter the growing risks of road traffic accidents, criminal activity and general lawlessness associated with the holiday period.

Police officers have been deployed countrywide to conduct roadblocks, traffic blitzes, stop-and-search operations, as well as intensified motorised, foot and cycle patrols in central business districts, residential areas, industrial zones and leisure centres.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police acknowledge the onset of the 2025 festive season, a period marked by an increase in travel and socio-economic activities, as well as large public gatherings across the country,” said Comm-Gen Mutamba.

“On the other hand, the country faces challenges of road traffic accidents, criminal activity and various violations of the law. This necessitates enhanced vigilance, heightened and proactive policing by the Zimbabwe Republic Police.”

He urged members of the public to take precautionary measures when travelling, including securing their homes and ensuring someone keeps watch over their property.

On road safety, Comm-Gen Mutamba reminded motorists that safety on the roads is a shared responsibility.

“Road safety is a collective responsibility by all Zimbabweans; therefore, motorists are urged to comply with speed limits, avoid overloading and plan their journeys accordingly,” he said.

“Above all, drivers should minimise night travel as some fatal road traffic accidents occur during these times due to vision and observation challenges.”

He warned that all defective or unroadworthy vehicles would be impounded, while members of the public were strongly discouraged from boarding non-public service vehicles such as pirate taxis and mushika-shika.

“The Police will impound all defective or unroadworthy vehicles for the safety of Zimbabweans and visitors to the country,” said Comm-Gen Mutamba.

“Members of the public are strongly discouraged from boarding non-public service vehicles, including pirate taxis and mushika-shika, for their own safety.”

Private motorists were also cautioned against offering lifts to strangers due to the risk of robbery and loss of vehicles or valuables.

“Similarly, private motorists are urged not to offer lifts to strangers, as doing so exposes them to the risk of robbery cases, loss of their vehicles and valuables to criminals,” he said.

Comm-Gen Mutamba further advised motorists to exercise caution on slippery roads and avoid crossing flooded rivers or bridges. Public service vehicle operators were reminded to prioritise passenger safety, while travellers were encouraged to report reckless driving to the police.

He said police operations would also be intensified along the country’s borders to curb smuggling and other illicit activities, with traders directed to declare all goods at designated ports of entry and exit.

“My office has directed Officer Commanding Provinces to take stern action on illegal liquor outlets during this holiday. Liquor outlets operating outside stipulated hours and those selling alcohol to minors will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he said.

“Parents and guardians are cautioned against facilitating underage drinking and alcohol abuse during the festive gatherings.”

Comm-Gen Mutamba called on Zimbabweans to observe peace and exercise restraint during the festive season, noting a rise in disputes during this period. He also urged compliance with laws governing the use of fireworks and firecrackers during New Year celebrations.

The police chief encouraged the public to refuse paying bribes and to report corruption or suspicious conduct to the nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk.

“As families, businesses and institutions go about their daily activities, the public is urged to safeguard cash and valuables to minimise the risk of robbery and violent crime,” he said.