ZRP Boss Bans Police Officers From Impounding Cars For Missing Triangles, Reflective Jackets, & Not Wearing Seatbelts

Zimbabwe Police Banned From Impounding Cars For Minor Faults

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has taken a firm stand, officially banning its officers from impounding vehicles for minor offences such as missing emergency triangles, not wearing seatbelts, or lacking reflective jackets. This landmark directive was delivered by ZRP national spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi during a press conference in Bulawayo on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, directly confronting widespread public anger over alleged police extortion.

Zimlive reports that Commissioner Nyathi stated that the force’s top brass was forced to act after a flood of complaints from harassed motorists. He presented a definitive new stance, drawing a clear line between lawful enforcement and overreach.

“I want to state it categorically: the Commissioner General of police has not authorised police officers to impound vehicles for these issues. No vehicle will be impounded for not carrying a triangle, for not wearing a safety belt or for not having a reflective jacket.”

Provincial Commanders Ordered To Rein In Traffic Units

To enforce this new directive, Commissioner Nyathi revealed that provincial police commanders have been personally instructed to brief all traffic officers under their command. The goal is to ensure what he termed “discipline and flexibility” on the roads. He issued a stark warning to any police officer who disregards the new orders.

“We want police officers who are disciplined. If they go out of the way, we will certainly take action,” he added.

The police spokesman also shifted focus to motorists, criticising a widespread failure to learn basic road rules. He argued that this ignorance makes drivers easy targets for manipulation by corrupt officers. However, he was quick to remind the public that ultimate responsibility for vehicle safety remains with the driver.

“We will take action against vehicles being driven on the roads with worn-out tyres and those not certified fit,” he stated firmly.

Mshikashika Crackdown Continues Amid Safety Concerns

While easing rules for minor infractions, Commissioner Nyathi staunchly defended the ongoing brutal crackdown on mshikashika (illegal pirate taxis) operators. He directly linked these unregistered vehicles to a spike in fatal accidents, often caused by dangerous overloading.

“People are dying. Anyone who wants to operate a public service vehicle must register through the ministry of local government and the ministry of transport.”

He ended with a grave and emotional plea to the public, urging them to avoid these unsafe vehicles at all costs.

“Let us not be careless with our lives,” he said.

The ZRP confirmed these new measures will be in effect as thousands of officers are deployed for the upcoming Christmas holiday season, promising a period of heightened, but more regulated, road enforcement.