ZRP To Clamp Down On Private Motorcade Escorts, Says They Are Reserved For Presidium Only

ZRP To Clampdown On Private Escorts, Warns That They Preserve Of Presidium Only

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced a nationwide crackdown on motorists using illegal sirens, beacon lights and private motorcade escorts, warning that such privileges are reserved for the country’s presidium only. Authorities say the operation will also target vehicles moving without registration plates, with police confirming that offenders will face immediate action during roadblocks and checkpoints.

The announcement was made on 10 March 2026, via an official police statement later shared on social media. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the countrywide operation has already begun and will target a wide range of vehicles, including private, company, government and public service vehicles.

According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, motorists who attempt to use private escorts with sirens or flashing lights will face decisive enforcement action.

“Reference is made to the ZRP press statement issued today titled ‘ZRP launches operation on plateless vehicles and vehicles fitted with illegal sirens and blue lights’. The ZRP reiterates that no vehicle with no registration plates will be allowed to pass through police checkpoints or road blocks.”

The police also warned motorists against using unofficial motorcade escorts.

“Police will take decisive action on anyone engaging in private escorts with vehicles fitted with illegal sirens or beacon lights. Zimbabweans are once again reminded that public or private escorts are the preserve of the country’s presidium only.”

Nationwide Operation Targets Multiple Violations

In the detailed statement released on 10 March 2026, Police Commissioner Paul Nyathi, Chief Staff Officer for Press and Public Relations to the Commissioner-General of Police, confirmed that law enforcement officers have already started enforcing the operation across the country.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that a countrywide operation is currently underway targeting vehicles moving on the roads without registration number plates and those illegally fitted with sirens, blue lights, bar lights, beacons and other unauthorized gadgets.”

Authorities said the operation covers all categories of vehicles, including family vehicles, company cars, government vehicles and public transport.

Police said they had noticed a worrying trend where motorists deliberately remove number plates to avoid being identified after committing crimes or traffic violations.

Vehicles Without Plates To Be Impounded

The police warned that vehicles travelling without registration plates will be seized immediately.

“All plateless vehicles will be impounded forthwith and will only be released once proper registration process is conducted and registration plates affixed on the vehicle concerned.”

Authorities also warned motorists who install illegal emergency equipment that the gadgets will be removed instantly.

“All illegal sirens, blue lights, bar lights, beacons and related gadgets will be removed on the spot with no excuses being entertained by the Zimbabwe Republic Police.”

Police added that such equipment is strictly reserved for authorised emergency vehicles.

Police Warn Public About Leaked Document

Meanwhile, police urged the public to ignore a document circulating on social media which allegedly details aspects of the operation.

“The public is urged to disregard a document circulating on social media regarding this operation, which was leaked by an individual who attended a commanders’ meeting.”

Police said official updates regarding the operation will only be released through official communication channels.

“All updates on the operation will be issued through official channels of the Zimbabwe Republic Police. We urge all motorists to cooperate with the Zimbabwe Republic Police during this operation for the effective maintenance law and order in the country.”

No monetary penalties were specified in the statement.