Zimbabwe Police Warn Motorists Of Licence Cancellation, Driving Bans Over Multiple Traffic Offences

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned motorists caught committing multiple traffic offences that they risk prosecution, driving bans and cancellation of their licences as enforcement intensifies under the newly activated Electronic Traffic Management System.

The system, currently operational at 20 sites in Harare, is capturing offences ranging from dangerous overtaking to driving without seatbelts, with offenders facing strict deadlines to respond to electronic notifications.

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Cameras Expose Multiple Traffic Violations

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi issued the warning during a media engagement in Harare yesterday, where journalists were given an opportunity to observe how the system monitors road users in the central business district.

Footage presented to the media showed motorists committing several traffic offences, with some facing multiple penalties for their violations.

Nyathi said the technology would strengthen accountability on the roads and help protect motorists and other road users from dangerous driving.

He stressed that the system was intended to improve road discipline rather than simply punish people.

“The system is not there to punish motorists and pedestrians, but to bring sanity to our roads and stop reckless driving that endangers other road users,” Nyathi said.

The cameras are monitoring various violations, including overtaking at traffic lights, failure to wear seatbelts and picking up or dropping off passengers at undesignated points.

Police have also warned pedestrians against jaywalking and motorcyclists against dangerous riding, saying all road users must comply with traffic regulations.

Motorists Face 14-Day Deadline

Motorists identified through the system will be notified electronically and given seven days to respond to the recorded offences.

A further seven days will be allowed for the payment of any applicable fines, bringing the response and payment period to 14 days.

Those who fail to respond within the stipulated period risk being blacklisted and placed on a police wanted list for prosecution.

Nyathi said motorists would be able to review the video evidence against them before deciding whether to pay the fine or challenge the matter in court.

“Every motorist found on the wrong side of the law will be given the opportunity to view the recorded video and will have the choice of paying the fine or appearing in court,” he said.

He added that the consequences would depend on the nature of each offence and the relevant legal provisions, with serious violations potentially resulting in driving bans or licence cancellation.

Police Target Corruption And Criminal Activity

The electronic system is also expected to support investigations into suspected criminal activity, including armed robberies and smash-and-grab incidents.

Police believe the footage and vehicle identification capabilities could help officers trace vehicles associated with suspicious movements and other criminal cases.

Nyathi said using technology to enforce traffic laws would reduce the need for direct interactions between motorists and police officers, limiting opportunities for bribery, extortion and interference with enforcement procedures.

“The system is shifting towards technology-driven law enforcement,” he said.

However, the police spokesperson clarified that the technology would complement officers rather than replace them. Officers would continue working on the ground, using information from the system to improve their response to crime and suspicious activity.