Media and Police are partners in creating a safe c...

Media and Police are partners in creating a safe country: ZRP

Patience Muchemwa

Media practitioners have an important role in combating crime, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has said.

Police national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said ZRP is open for two way communication with all media players.

“At times journalists get information that we as the police do not have. By sharing that with us, it empowers the police to act in preventing crime or ensuring that perpetrators are brought to book,” said Comm Nyathi.

He was speaking during an engagement session with Zim Now on Friday when the media house hosted the national and Harare province communications officers.

Other officers who attended were Officer In Charge Press and Public Relations at PGHQ Inspector Webster Dzvova, ZRP Harare Province spokesperson Inspector Lovemore Chakanza, Assistant Inspector Mapisa from Harare and Assistant Inspector Kajombo, Chief Clerk for Press and Public Relations at PGHQ.

Also present were invited media practitioners from other organisations.

Comm Nyathi said the police is very open to such engagements as Commissioner General Godwin Matanga has mandated the force to work with the media across the board to ensure effective communication.

“This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting transparency and accountability within the police force, creating a more collaborative environment for both parties. With this mutual understanding in place, the media and the police can work together to ensure that citizens are kept well-informed and secure,” said Comm Nyathi.

Zim Now managing Editor Monica Cheru thanked police for being consistently responsive to queries.

She said the media house will continue to play its Fourth Estate role with a high sense of responsibility and regard for the public’s need to know on matters of national interest.