Zimbabweans are being urged to resist paying bribes to traffic police officers, with assurances that vehicles cannot be impounded for minor traffic offences such as not carrying a warning triangle or wearing a seatbelt. Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba has made a direct appeal to the public, encouraging them to report any suspicious or corrupt behaviour encountered on the roads.
The Commissioner-General’s statement comes in the wake of public outcry over alleged abuses by traffic officers, with motorists reporting threats of vehicle impoundment for minor infractions. National police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi addressed these concerns two weeks prior at a press conference in Bulawayo, stating unequivocally that such actions are unlawful.
“I want to state it categorically: the Commissioner General of police has not authorised police officers to impound vehicles for these issues,” Nyathi asserted. “No vehicle will be impounded for not carrying a triangle, for not wearing a safety belt or for not having a reflective jacket.”
Nyathi confirmed that provincial commanders have been instructed to brief their traffic units, emphasising “discipline and flexibility” in law enforcement. He warned that any officers found deviating from official guidelines would face disciplinary action. “We want police officers who are disciplined. If they go out of the way, we will certainly take action,” he said.
Comm-Gen Mutamba echoed this sentiment, urging the public to utilise the newly rebranded ZRP National Highway Patrol vehicles to report any incidents. “Refuse to pay bribes, remember, by doing so, you are complicit in the crime,” he stated. “Report any corrupt or suspicious behaviour to your nearest police station.”
The Commissioner-General also highlighted the importance of reporting individuals involved in the distribution of illicit substances, as the police intensify their operations against smuggling and other illegal activities. “Transporters must declare all goods at official ports of entry and exit, as the law will be strictly enforced,” he said.
As part of efforts to enhance road safety during the festive season and beyond, the ZRP has unveiled a rebranded National Highway Patrol team, equipped with five high-powered Double-Cab Ford Ranger vehicles. Each vehicle will be staffed by officers wearing body cameras, forming part of a comprehensive electronic traffic management system.
In his 2025 Festive Season statement on crime and road safety, Comm-Gen Mutamba acknowledged the increased risks associated with heightened travel and socio-economic activities during this period, including a rise in road traffic accidents and criminal activity.
“We have deployed officers nationwide to set up roadblocks, conduct traffic blitzes, and execute stop-and-search operations,” he announced. “Motorised, foot, and cycle patrols will be intensified in areas such as the Central Business Districts, residential zones, industrial areas, and leisure centres.”
The police boss also addressed the issue of liquor outlets operating beyond their licensed hours, stating that there will be a crackdown during the festive season.
Comm-Gen Mutamba reminded all Zimbabweans that road safety is a shared responsibility. He advised drivers to minimise night travel, citing the high incidence of fatal accidents due to poor visibility. “Drivers should minimise night travel, as many fatal accidents occur during this time due to visibility issues,” he said.
He also cautioned private motorists against offering lifts to strangers, warning of potential dangers. “Private motorists should refrain from offering lifts to strangers to avoid exposing themselves to danger,” he advised.
Commissioner Nyathi also criticised drivers for their lack of knowledge regarding basic road rules, which he said made them susceptible to exploitation by unscrupulous officers. He reminded motorists that ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy is their responsibility, not the police’s. “We will take action against vehicles being driven on the roads with worn-out tyres and those not certified fit,” he warned.
Furthermore, Nyathi defended the ongoing crackdown on illegal public transporters, known as “mshikashika,” arguing that they contribute to fatal accidents involving overloaded vehicles. “People are dying,” he said. “Anyone who wants to operate a public service vehicle must register through the ministry of local government and the ministry of transport.”
He urged passengers to avoid using unsafe vehicles, emphasising that negligence can be fatal. “Let us not be careless with our lives,” he implored.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is therefore urging all citizens to be vigilant, law-abiding, and to cooperate with law enforcement officers to ensure a safe and secure festive season for all. By refusing to pay bribes, reporting suspicious behaviour, and adhering to road safety regulations, Zimbabweans can contribute to a safer and more just society. The message is clear: know your rights, and don’t be intimidated by corrupt officials. The police are there to serve and protect, and they are committed to ensuring that the laws of the country are enforced fairly and impartially.
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