Authorities have stepped up efforts to curb road offences and holiday-related crime across Zimbabwe.
The latest operation comes as the country prepares for the Heroes and Defence Forces holidays.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police and Traffic Safety Council launched a road safety campaign in Gweru on Saturday.
The initiative targets road accidents, which often rise during busy holiday periods.
Authorities are also tackling drug abuse and crimes linked to substance misuse.
Meanwhile, motorists have welcomed the campaign and urged travellers to make safety their priority.
Motorists urged to prioritise road safety
Many motorists expect heavier traffic as families travel during the holiday period.
One motorist urged drivers to remain patient during long journeys.
“During these holidays, we are travelling long distances, so motorists need to be patient, avoid speeding and make sure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on a journey,” a motorist said.
Another motorist highlighted the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol.
“We want to enjoy the holidays safely. People should avoid drinking and driving, and passengers should also speak up when a driver is speeding or driving recklessly,” another motorist said.
Motorists also warned travellers about rising security risks during busy periods.
“Crime can also increase during busy holiday periods, so we encourage people to look after their property and report suspicious activities to the police,” one of the motorists added.
Furthermore, communities face growing concerns over drug and substance abuse among young people.
“Drug and substance abuse is a serious concern, especially among young people. We need communities and parents to work together to stop this problem,” another motorist said.
Police intensify enforcement operations
Police said the campaign combines public education with stronger enforcement across the province.
Authorities are targeting dangerous driving, illegal alcohol transportation and unapproved alcoholic beverages.
“We are engaging stakeholders, particularly motorists and the public in general, to take measures to safeguard their property. We are also urging motorists to observe road rules and regulations, avoid reckless driving and other risky behaviour that could potentially result in accidents. We subject motorists to the relevant tests, particularly where there is suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
“We are also conducting roadblocks to ensure that there is no transportation of unapproved alcohol and other illicit beverages. Regarding illegal alcoholic beverages, including those not approved by the State, we have deployed teams to conduct operations targeting illegal outlets and illicit brews such as Shebeens. These teams are carrying out operations to identify and eliminate such illegal activities,” ZRP Officer Commanding Midlands Province, Commissioner Patson Nyabadza said.
The latest campaign follows a worrying increase in holiday road accidents last year.
Police recorded 196 accidents during the 2025 Heroes and Defence Forces holidays.
That figure increased from 149 accidents recorded during the same period in 2024.
Road deaths also climbed significantly during the period.
Authorities recorded 24 fatalities in 2025, compared with 16 deaths during the previous year.
Therefore, officials hope stronger enforcement will improve safety during this year’s holiday commemorations.
They also expect public awareness campaigns to discourage reckless driving and other dangerous behaviour.
The post Police intensify holiday road safety and crime prevention campaign appeared first on iHarare News.
