By Loyd Matare
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned motorists and the travelling public against offering bribes to police officers during the festive season, saying both the giver and the receiver will face the full wrath of the law.
This comes as corruption has remained widespread on many highways and urban checkpoints, with some traffic officers accused of routinely demanding “spot fines” and extorting motorists, especially during peak travel periods.
In a statement on the 2025 festive season policing plan, Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba said the ZRP had intensified deployments countrywide to manage increased travel, public gatherings, and crime but stressed that the public must not fuel corruption.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police does not condone any form of corruption, whether on the roads or during police operations.
“Refuse to pay a bribe. Remember, by paying a bribe you are equally guilty of the same crime,” Mutamba said.
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He urged motorists to report corrupt officers instead of negotiating illicit payments.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any criminal, corrupt, or suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk,” he added.
The Commissioner-General further urged the public to avoid pirate taxis, mushika-shika and unlicensed transporters, noting that criminal gangs often use such vehicles to commit robberies.
As the festive rush intensifies, he appealed for calm and discipline:
“Zimbabweans in general are urged to observe peace at all times and exercise restraint.”
