ZRP Bosses Warn Officers Against Seizing Cars Over Minor Traffic Violations

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has said that police officers are not allowed to seize vehicles for minor traffic offences, amid growing public anger over alleged abuses by traffic officers.

Speaking at a press conference in Bulawayo on Wednesday, ZRP spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi said motorists had reported officers threatening to take their cars for reasons such as not carrying an emergency triangle, not wearing a seatbelt, or not having a reflective jacket. He said:

“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.”

Nyathi said provincial commanders had been instructed to brief their traffic teams to ensure “discipline and flexibility” when enforcing the law.

He warned that officers who do not follow official guidelines would face disciplinary action.

Nyathi also criticised drivers for not familiarising themselves with basic road rules, saying this makes them vulnerable to exploitation by rogue officers.

More: ZimLive

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