Itai Mazire
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has launched a nationwide blitz against crime and traffic offences, netting 2 069 arrests in just two days as law enforcement zeros in on murder, drug abuse, robberies and the notorious mushikashika menace.
The operation, which commenced on 13 July 2026, has already seen 1 809 arrests in a single day ,14 July-bringing the cumulative tally to 2 069 since the crackdown began.
National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the development saying the operation is set to restore sanity across the country.
“The operation seeks to curb offences such as murder, drug and substance abuse, attempted murder, robbery, unlawful entry into premises, theft, stock theft, rape, kidnapping, smuggling and assault,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
The blitz is also targeting traffic violations that have turned Zimbabwe’s roads into death traps.
“The operation is also targeting traffic violations including the use of pirate taxis or mushikashika vehicles, the use of unregistered or plateless vehicles, drunk driving, unlicensed driving, dangerous overtaking, failure to obey traffic lights and other reckless driving practices.”
On 14 July alone, police made 26 arrests for theft, 63 for unlawful possession of dangerous drugs, three for robbery, one for murder, seven for unlawful entry and theft, and one for stock theft – painting a grim picture of the criminal landscape the operation seeks to dismantle.
“To complement the operation, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified patrols, roadblocks, stop and search blitz, compliance inspections and public awareness campaigns across the country,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
The police have called on citizens to join the fight.
“The public is therefore encouraged to observe the law, be responsible citizens and support police efforts in the fight against crime.”
The operation, described as an ongoing commitment to maintain law and order, protect lives and property and enhance road safety, shows no signs of slowing down as police intensify patrols and compliance inspections nationwide.
