BY STAFF REPORTER
As the country prepares to host the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has issued a statement urging the public to exhibit law-abiding behavior during the upcoming event and the Heroes’ holiday.
Commissioner-General of Police, Tandabantu Godwin Matanga, assured foreign dignitaries, visitors, and Zimbabweans that adequate police deployments have been made to ensure peace and security throughout the country. “We want to assure the public that we have deployed enough police officers and resources to ensure that peace prevails not only in Harare but in all parts of the country,” said Matanga.
The statement comes as the country prepares to host the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit from August 17-18.
The summit will be preceded by the commemoration of the nation’s Heroes and Defence Forces holidays.
However, rights watchdogs, including the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference have expressed deep concern over the prevailing situation in the country, citing the resurgence of “ugly vices” ahead of the SADC Heads of States meeting where sores of rights activists and opposition members have been locked in jail for varying degrees of freedom of expression charges.
The police commissioner also urged motorists to drive responsibly and cooperate with police officers controlling traffic. “We implore motorists to be exemplary in their driving conduct…we will impound all unroadworthy vehicles and take stern action on any motorist who will be found driving through red traffic lights, going against the flow of traffic or creating third or fourth lanes on the roads,” he warned.
Matanga also appealed to parents to prioritize the safety and security of children during the holiday and urged the public to report any criminal acts to the police. “We want to assure the public that we will take decisive action against anyone operating unlicensed liquor outlets or shebeens during this period,” he said.
The police commissioner also reminded the public that the police will maintain its usual visibility in residential, industrial areas, and Central Business Districts through patrols, stop and search blitz, and monitoring suspects who might want to take advantage of the pending holidays and the SADC Summit to commit criminal acts.
“We will also take decisive action against anyone found driving under the influence of alcohol,” Matanga warned. “We want to assure the public that we will do everything in our power to ensure that they are safe and secure during this period.”
The police commissioner concluded by wishing all visitors to the country a safe stay and hospitality. “Please enjoy the safety and security of Zimbabwe during your stay,” he said.