ZRP Boosts Security Ahead of Heroes and Defence Forces Holidays

As Zimbabwe prepares to mark the 45th anniversary of Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has ramped up security and road safety operations nationwide, deploying more officers to ensure public safety.

In a statement released on Wednesday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that police presence on roads will be significantly increased during the holiday period. He cautioned that vehicles operating outside the law — including unroadworthy cars, pirate taxis (mushika-shika), unregistered or plateless vehicles — will be seized. Motorists driving under the influence of alcohol, as well as touts harassing passengers, will face arrest.

“We’ve deployed sufficient personnel across the country to ensure safe travel during the holiday period,” said Nyathi. “Those who violate traffic laws will face serious consequences. The law will be enforced without exception.”

He added that police will also be focusing on criminal activity beyond road safety. Special units formed to combat armed robberies, drug trafficking, and other offences are now fully operational, with patrols extended to residential areas, industrial zones, and city centers.

“The Commissioner-General of Police has instructed police commanders to increase patrols and apprehend those involved in drug dealing, robberies, and other crimes. Our crack teams remain on high alert and will act swiftly in response to armed robbery reports,” Nyathi stated.

In addition, Nyathi issued a warning to unlicensed liquor outlets, saying police will not hesitate to shut them down. He also urged the public to report licensed bars that fail to observe proper operating hours.

Citizens were further advised to exercise caution with their personal finances — avoiding storing large amounts of cash at home or in business premises and limiting the sharing of financial details to prevent becoming targets for criminals.

As schools close for the break, the police also appealed to parents and school authorities to monitor children closely, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel at night to reduce the risk of exposure to sexual abuse, drugs, and substance abuse.

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