The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has responded to growing fears over smash-and-grab syndicates targeting motorists at traffic lights and intersections in Harare. Police say they are aware of the incidents, but warned drivers against violating traffic laws by jumping red lights, despite increasing anxiety among motorists who fear becoming victims while stopping at intersections.
The concerns come as authorities continue rolling out AI-powered traffic cameras across Harare under the Smart Traffic Management System aimed at improving road safety and enforcing traffic regulations.
Police Acknowledge Growing Fear Among Motorists
According to The Sunday Mail, Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza said police had received concerns from motorists over smash-and-grab attacks happening at intersections, especially at areas where traffic cameras have already been installed.
“We are aware of the concerns being raised by motorists regarding smash-and-grab incidents at some intersections, particularly where traffic cameras have been installed.”
Inspector Chakanza said motorists were still expected to obey road rules despite fears over criminal activity.
“However, motorists are still required to obey traffic regulations and should not jump red lights, as this endangers other road users and pedestrians.”
He said the traffic camera system was introduced to improve road discipline and public safety, not to expose motorists to criminals.
“The cameras are part of broader measures to promote road discipline and enhance public safety.”
The police spokesperson also revealed that law enforcement had increased deployments in areas identified as crime hotspots.
“At the same time, police have intensified patrols and deployments in areas identified as crime hotspots.”
Police Say Arrests Have Already Been Made
Inspector Chakanza dismissed claims that police were failing to act against the criminals behind the attacks.
“It is not correct to suggest that police are not taking action. Arrests have been made in some cases and investigations are ongoing.”
He urged victims and motorists to continue reporting incidents to assist investigators.
“We encourage motorists and victims to continue reporting these incidents because such reports help police deploy effectively and track criminal syndicates.”
The police reaction follows growing complaints from drivers who say intersections in Harare have become dangerous at night, especially along Liberation Legacy Way, Harare Drive and some roads within the central business district.
Several motorists have shared stories of thieves smashing windows and stealing valuables within seconds while vehicles are stationary at traffic lights.
Residents Call For More Security
Residents and motorists are now calling for tighter security measures at intersections regarded as hotspots.
Some have appealed for more visible police patrols, improved street lighting and faster responses to reported incidents.
Security experts have also urged motorists to remain alert, avoid displaying valuables inside vehicles and leave enough space between cars at traffic lights to allow quick movement if danger arises.
For many drivers in Harare, however, stopping at a red light at night is increasingly becoming a tense experience as smash-and-grab syndicates continue targeting unsuspecting motorists.
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