ZRP launches Operation “Safe Corridor” to target broken-down vehicles causing congestion

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a comprehensive operation targeting vehicles that cause obstruction and congestion on the country’s roads after breaking down.

In a statement issued on 1 September 2026, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the operation, dubbed “Safe Corridor,” commenced on 31 August 2026.

Commissioner Nyathi said the operation targets traffic violations and vehicle activities that cause congestion, chaos, road accidents, and obstruct the smooth flow of traffic within Central Business Districts (CBDs) and surrounding areas across the country.

“The operation is targeting, among others, vehicles which are breaking down along highways, major roads and Central Business Districts, with some left unattended for extended periods while not displaying red reflective triangles. This poses a danger to other road users and increases the risk of road traffic accidents in the country,” he said.

He said police had observed some drivers using tree branches, stones, boulders, or other objects as substitutes for red reflective triangles after breakdowns, which is against the country’s laws and road safety measures.

“The objects are not even removed from the roads after vehicles have been moved,” Commissioner Nyathi said.

He said some broken-down vehicles were causing chaos and congestion in CBDs and residential areas during peak hours, while some motorists were parking vehicles at undesignated points or picking up passengers within CBDs, thereby obstructing traffic flow.

The police also raised concern over operators of transit heavy vehicles who are not using designated routes when passing through CBDs and residential areas, causing chaos and road accidents.

Commissioner Nyathi said vehicles found to be in violation of the law will be impounded and will only be released upon completion of the requisite clearance procedures and compliance with legal requirements.

“Vehicle owners will be made to meet the cost of any broken-down vehicle removed from the roads by the Police, Government Departments and local authorities,” he said.

The ZRP has urged the public to cooperate with police officers as they carry out duties to maintain law and order, ensure road safety, ease congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow.

Members of the public have been encouraged to report any broken-down vehicles or those obstructing traffic through the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631 or via WhatsApp on 0712 800 197, or at the nearest police station.