Police have defended the growing number of roadblocks across the country, particularly in major cities, which many motorists say have become a nightmare.
A frustrated Harare resident claimed that Southerton Police sometimes mount as many as four roadblocks at once within a five-kilometre radius.
He said three of these are often within just two kilometres — one along Willowvale Road, another on Harare Drive, one on Highfield Road, and the fourth at the corner of Highfield and Manchester Roads.
However, in a statement on Thursday, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said all roadblock schedules are approved through proper channels.
He explained that station, district, and provincial commanders must submit their plans to the Police General Headquarters’ Operations Department for guidance and clearance. Said Comm Nyathi:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has taken note of the public’s concerns regarding the sighting and manning of police roadblocks in the country.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police Command reiterates that all police roadblock schedules are submitted by Station, District and Provincial Police Commanders to the Police General Headquarters’ Operations Department, for guidance and clearance.
“The policy of the Zimbabwe Republic Police is that no roadblocks are manned within a 30 to 50 kilometre radius of each policing area, whether in urban or rural setup.
“The police officers conducting roadblock duties are supervised by Station, District and Provincial Commanders to prevent cases of indiscipline or corruption and ensure quality service to the public.
“However, the public should take note that police roadblocks are heightened or increased during public order situations, national events, or special operations such as reacting to an immediate incident or scene involving moving criminals or stolen property.
“Soon after, the situation has to revert back to the ideal scenario.
“In this regard, members of the public are encouraged to engage the Commissioner-General of Police or the respective Provincial Command if there are concerns about unusual roadblock deployments in certain areas.
“Disciplinary action will be taken against any police officer who conducts roadblock duties in a manner which is not in conformity with police set standards.
“The public is free to raise concerns or lodge complaints through the National Complaints Desk on 0242 703631 or via WhatsApp on 0712 800 197.”
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