ZRP embarks on smart policing
ZRP Harare Province, working with the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR), has embarked on a smart policing strategy through the use of technology to curb criminal activities by motorists in the capital.
Like any other contemporary organisation, the law enforcement organisation has started using cameras in the Harare central business district (CBD), targeting kombis and pirate taxis which are now commonly known for breaking road rules and regulations.
The strategy has since ended the cat-andmouse game which was now common in the CBD. At least 110 kombi operators have so far been arrested since the inception of the operation in December last year.
Speaking to The Herald during one of the operations targeted at curbing criminal activities by the commuter bus operators, acting Harare provincial community relations liaison officer Assistant Inspector Webster Dzvova said the operation will continue until all offenders were brought to book.
“The aim of this strategy, which we borrowed from the developed nations, is to curb criminal activities by motorists in the CBD and also to try and de-congest the town,” he said.
“ZRP Harare is partnering with other stakeholders in an endeavour to fight crime. In Harare Province, ZRP Avondale partnered with their Crime Consultative Committee in installing CCTV at corner Sam Nujoma and Churchill Avenue.
“In Harare’s CBD, we have started taking videos and photographs of mushikashika kombis and riders on wheels, an act popularly known as kurembera pakombi. We then forward the information of those kombis to CVR where we will obtain ownership information.
“We will then use the information to track down the offenders and bring them to book.
“At least 110 kombis operators have been arrested to date.”
Asst Insp Dzvova appealed to organisations for assistance in installing more cameras in the CBD, which he said will contribute in reducing crime.
He said the police started awareness campaigns aimed at de-congesting the CBD.
“The ZRP Harare Province has also started awareness campaigns aimed at de-congesting Harare CBD in line with President Mnangagwa’s vision of being open for business and upholding of the rule of law by all citizens,” he said.
“Delivery trucks should enter the CBD between 1800hrs and 0600hrs and heavy vehicles should use roads on the periphery of the CBD to avoid congestion. Passengers are also urged to use designated pick up and drop off points.
“Drivers should not stop at the centre of the road, not go through red traffic lights and not drive against one way or on pavements.”