The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a comprehensive nationwide road safety operation aimed at protecting citizens during the forthcoming school break and festive season. The initiative represents a significant pre-emptive effort to curb both traffic-related accidents and holiday-period criminal activity, with officers being mobilised from the capital to the most remote corners of the country.
The operation comes at a time when Zimbabwe typically experiences a marked surge in road traffic, as families travel to visit relatives, holidaymakers move across provinces, and students head home for the summer break. Police authorities are urging travellers to exercise caution and adhere strictly to road safety regulations, emphasising that vigilance is key to avoiding tragedies during this high-risk period.
Speaking on behalf of the ZRP, Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the large-scale deployment involves officers engaging with transport operators at national, provincial, and district levels to ensure smooth and secure movement for travellers. He said:
“Police officers will therefore conduct engagement with transporters at National, Provincial and District levels for the smooth and safe movement of travellers from various cities, towns and other places.”
The campaign is designed to address multiple challenges simultaneously: overcrowded buses, reckless driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and the potential rise in criminal activity that often accompanies increased travel during festive periods. The police are placing particular emphasis on the safety of children and young passengers, noting that their welfare must be a top priority for parents, guardians, and schools.
Zimbabwe Police Roll Out Major Festive Season Road Safety Operation
Commissioner Nyathi was emphatic about the need for caution when transporting pupils. He reminded parents and school authorities to avoid travelling at night and to ensure that only vehicles certified as roadworthy and suitable for carrying children are used. He stated:
“School authorities and parents should prioritise the safety and security of pupils and avoid travelling at night or hiring vehicles which are not certified fit to carry children.”
This warning is particularly timely, as the combination of long-distance travel, fatigue, and overloading has historically contributed to accidents during school breaks. Authorities have also promised strict action against drivers or operators who flout the law, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to unsafe or illegal practices.
Commissioner Nyathi stressed that the success of the national road safety operation hinges on active participation by the public. He encouraged citizens to act responsibly on the roads, remain vigilant, and report any unsafe or unlawful behaviour they encounter. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges Zimbabweans to cooperate with deployed officers and report errant drivers for the law to take its course,” he said.
To facilitate reporting, the police have publicised dedicated contact lines for tip-offs. Individuals witnessing dangerous driving or criminal activity are urged to use the following numbers: (0242) 703 631 or WhatsApp 0712 800 197. Authorities have assured the public that these lines will be monitored closely and that reports will be acted upon promptly to ensure community safety.
Throughout the holiday and festive season, the ZRP has pledged to maintain transparency and keep the nation informed about enforcement measures and officer deployments. Commissioner Nyathi noted:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will continue to give regular updates on Police deployments for the festive season.”
In addition to enforcement, officers are expected to carry out roadblocks, patrol key highways, and engage in public awareness campaigns aimed at educating drivers about the dangers of speeding, driving under the influence, and using unlicensed or uncertified vehicles. The operation is being coordinated with provincial police commands to ensure that both urban and rural routes are adequately monitored, with special attention given to areas prone to accidents or criminal activity.
The ZRP emphasises that road safety during the festive season is a shared responsibility. Parents, guardians, transport operators, and travellers themselves must remain alert and adhere to traffic laws to protect themselves and others. With roads expected to be busier than usual, collective vigilance can help prevent accidents and save lives.
By combining proactive policing, public cooperation, and strict enforcement measures, authorities aim to create a safer environment for all Zimbabweans during the busy holiday period. Citizens are being reminded that the festive season should be a time for celebration and family, not tragedy, and that adherence to safety protocols is essential for achieving that goal.
Source- Byo24
