Police, army deploy anti-riot troops ahead of SADC Summit and Heroes Day holiday in Zimbabwe
By Tapiwa Svondo
WITH Zimbabwe set to host the 44th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government Summit next week, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has deployed anti-riot squads and water cannons while the army has joined with tanks to ensure adequate security measures are in place to maintain peace and safety during the high-profile event.
The deployment of anti-riot police and the army has been witnessed in different parts of the country, with tanks making rounds in convoy formations apparently to instil fear among citizens.
In a Press statement, ZRP Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga said police deployments will be in readiness for, not only the SADC Summit, but also the country’s upcoming Heroes and Defence Forces holidays.
“On behalf of the ZRP, I want to assure all the foreign dignitaries, visitors and Zimbabweans that the ZRP has deployed adequate police officers and resources to ensure that peace prevails not only in Harare but in all parts of the country.
“It is also a fact that the SADC Summit is going to be preceded by the 2024 commemoration of the nation’s Heroes and Defence Forces holidays. In this regard, the ZRP deployments will cover all these high-profile events,” said Matanga.
The police boss also addressed traffic enforcement, stating that police will impound unroadworthy vehicles and take stern action against motorists who violate traffic laws, including driving under the influence of alcohol.
“ZRP implores motorists to be exemplary in their driving conduct after the recent rehabilitation and construction of major roads in Harare and other parts of the country by the Government of Zimbabwe.
“In this regard, police officers deployed on road blocks and other traffic enforcement duties 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.
“This include those who will be found driving under the influence of alcohol. Motorists should cooperate with police officers controlling or directing traffic at road junctions, traffic lights and other points,”, he said.
Police will also maintain 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.
Matanga appealed to parents to prioritize the safety and security of children during the holiday period.
“May I also appeal to parents to prioritize the safety and security of children during this holiday. As the nation steps up the fight against drug and substance abuse in the country, I urge the public to continue giving my office information on drug barons and suppliers for the law to take its course without fear or favour.”
A crackdown on unlicensed liquor outlets is imminent.
“The Police will also take decisive action against anyone operating unlicensed liquor outlets or shebeens during this period. Owners of licensed liquor outlets are enjoined to conduct their business within the parameters of their respective licences and ensure that they observe the stipulated opening and closing times of their outlets,” the commissioner-general warned.
NewZimbabwe.com
