Police will be in full force during festive period...

Police will be in full force during festive period, says police boss

Michael Mashiri

Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga has said the police are going to deploy officers to deal with criminal elements engaging in robberies, murder, rape, stock theft and drug-related vice.

In his Commissioner-General 2022 Festive Season Statement on the state of preparedness of the security agency and safety of Zimbabweans during the period, Matanga said as a force they are going to with the various different activities this year end.

“Police officers will also account for criminal elements who commit armed robberies, murder, rape, stock theft and those who engage in illicit drug activities, which are affecting the youths and elderly.

“Criminal acts are likely to increase as evidenced by recorded cases of armed robbery, murder, rape, drug abuse, stock theft, unlawful entry and theft,” he said.

He urged people to bank large amounts of money and desist from keeping it at home.

“May l implore the public not to keep large sums of money at home or business premises as this attracts criminals,” he said.

Matanga said officers will be visible to the public so as to guarantee peace in communities, on the roads and public gatherings.

“I have directed officers commanding police provinces to ensure that sufficient visibility is maintained in the communities and on the country’s major roads,” he said.

He also implored the public to remain vigilant in case of any criminal activities in the festive season and notify the police in case of any suspicion.

“The public should not relax during the festive season period but remain alert in terms of family security and their property. Suspicious criminal movements should be quickly reported to the police for switch action to be taken,” he added.

Meanwhile, ZRP has urged drivers to stop whenever they are involved in an accident.

In a statement on their official Twitter handle, the police encouraged motorists to be considerate and ensure that proper steps are taken after an occurrence of an accident.

“Motorists should stop when involved in road traffic accidents, assist the injured if necessary and report all accidents to the police within 24 hours. ZRP Bulawayo Central is investigating a hit-and-run road traffic accident in which an unknown motorist, driving an unidentified vehicle, hit a motorcycle along Bulawayo-Gwanda Road, near NUST turnoff, on 15/12/22 at 2010 hours. The motorist sped off after the accident, and the rider sustained severe head injuries,” they said.

According to ZRP, crimes of theft has been on the rise, especially towards the festive season, adding that a man had his blue Honda Fit, which he had left unattended at Kuwadzana 4 Shopping Centre with the keys in the ignition.

“When he returned he found the vehicle missing. Anyone with information to contact any nearest Police station,” police said.