The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has commissioned high-powered boats, police motorcycles and new vehicles for the Canine (Dog Section) Unit as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement and improve service delivery nationwide.
ZRP’s Commissioner-General, Stephen Mutamba, said the boats will be deployed to police provinces and stations located along major rivers and lakes, where they will support water patrols, rescue operations and escort duties. He said the equipment will significantly enhance the police’s ability to respond to emergencies and curb criminal activities on waterways.
“The acquisition of these boats will enhance our capacity to conduct water patrols, respond to emergencies and save lives, particularly during the rainy season,” Commissioner-General Mutamba said.
In addition, the ZRP has commissioned police motorcycles to improve mobility, scene attendance and patrols in areas with rugged terrain, including farming communities, rural areas and central business districts across all provinces. The motorcycles are expected to reduce response times in locations that are difficult to access using conventional vehicles.
New vehicles have also been handed over to the Police Canine Unit to support crime detection and public order management. The vehicles will enable canine teams to respond efficiently to crime reports, track suspects, detect drugs, conduct searches and assist during crowd control operations.
Members of the public welcomed the move, citing its potential to improve safety and emergency response.
Harare resident, Tendai Moyo said the boats would be critical during flood-related emergencies, noting that rapid response on water could save lives in flood-prone areas.
Similarly, Mashonaland West farmer, Rudo Chikore said the introduction of police motorcycles would strengthen policing in remote farming communities. “Some areas are difficult to reach by vehicle, so bikes will help the police respond faster to incidents,” she said.
The commissioning of the equipment forms part of government’s broader efforts to capacitate the ZRP, enhance operational efficiency and improve public safety across the country.
