The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an investigation into the conduct of police officers stationed at a roadblock in Chipinge, Manicaland Province, after a South African tourist accused them of unprofessional conduct in a viral social media video following a US$30 fine for a traffic offence.
In a statement released, yesterday, ZRP national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said the police command had taken note of the incident and stressed that unprofessional behaviour by officers would not be condoned.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has noted with concern the social media incident involving police officers in Chipinge and does not condone unprofessional conduct by members,” Nyathi said.
He said the Police Command had already instituted measures to address the matter in line with internal standards and service delivery expectations.
“The Police Command is therefore taking action with a view of continuously giving the public quality service and diligently adhere to policing values and courtesy as outlined in the Zimbabwe Republic Police Client Service Charter,” Nyathi said.
Nyathi said the ZRP welcomed the tourist’s decision to bring the matter to the attention of authorities, adding that public feedback was critical in improving policing standards.
“Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police commends the tourist for bringing this incident to attention.
Investigations are underway to establish whether the officers acted within the confines of the law, with appropriate action to be taken based on the findings,” he said.
Roadblocks are a routine part of traffic enforcement in Zimbabwe, with motorists required to comply with safety regulations, including the mandatory carrying of four reflective warning triangles. However, interactions at roadblocks have increasingly come under public scrutiny, particularly where allegations of misconduct are raised.
The Chipinge incident also drew the attention of the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Minister Barbara Rwodzi who reportedly issued a personal apology to the tourist in a move aimed at safeguarding Zimbabwe’s image as a tourist destination.
