The Zimbabwe Republic Police has formally banned the impounding of vehicles over minor traffic violations, including failure to carry emergency triangles, not wearing seatbelts, or the absence of reflective jackets.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi announced the directive during a press briefing in Bulawayo on Wednesday, 26 November 2025. The move follows growing public outrage over alleged harassment and extortion by traffic officers.
Nyathi said senior police leadership was forced to intervene after receiving numerous complaints from motorists. He clarified that impounding vehicles for minor infractions has never been authorised by police headquarters.
“The Commissioner General has never authorised the impounding of vehicles for these offences. No car should be seized over a missing triangle, failure to wear a seatbelt, or the absence of a reflective jacket,” Nyathi said.
To ensure full compliance, provincial commanders have been directed to immediately brief all traffic officers under their jurisdictions. Nyathi emphasized that the aim is to restore professionalism and restraint in traffic policing.
He warned that any officer who disregards the directive will face disciplinary action.
“We expect discipline from our officers, and anyone who oversteps their authority will be dealt with,” he said.
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Nyathi also faulted some motorists for failing to familiarise themselves with basic traffic regulations, saying this exposes them to exploitation by corrupt officers. However, he stressed that drivers remain responsible for ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy.
Vehicles with worn tyres or those deemed unfit for the road will still face enforcement.
Despite easing pressure on minor offences, police have maintained a tough stance against mshikashika operators. Nyathi said illegal pirate taxis are a major cause of serious and fatal road accidents due to reckless driving and overloading.
“Lives are being lost. Anyone who wants to operate as a public transport provider must be properly registered with the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Transport,” he said.
He urged the public to avoid illegal transport services.
“Let us not gamble with our lives,” he said.
The ZRP confirmed that the new enforcement approach comes into effect alongside heightened deployments for the festive season, promising stricter but fairer policing on Zimbabwe’s roads.
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