Police prioritise corruption fight

POLICE have come up with robust and decisive strategies of detecting and dealing with corruption within the organisation.

Speaking at the Provincial Patrol Unit Service Charter prelaunch in Mt Darwin recently, Officer Commanding Mashonaland Central Province, Senior Assistant Commissioner Rangarirai Mushaurwa, said she was happy that ZRP was an integral part of the broad network of Government departments who are working together to nip corruption in the bud.

“As commanders we get worried when our offices are inundated by complaints from members of the public regarding police service.

“Complaints have emanated from abuse of authority by police officers, arrogance, lack of respect to members of the public, involvement of police officers in civil cases, taking sides in reported cases, lack of feedback to complainants on progress of investigations, exhibition of bad customer care skills at roadblocks and at stations, poor scene attendance skills, carrying out desk enquiries during investigations and other bad habits which bring discredit to the organisation,” she said.

“While these complaints negatively impact on our corporate image, we also take them as a window of opportunity for self introspection and reflection.

“On a positive note, we recognise that making a complaint is itself is a sign of knowledge and awareness of the ZRP, hence the refusal to accept substandard service.

“However, the shortcomings by our members not only indicate areas where we need to improve, but also provide us with critical opportunity to evaluate our procedures, standards and processes.”