The government is moving to tighten accountability at police roadblocks with the rollout of Point-of-Sale (POS) machines nationwide.
The move is expected to stamp out corruption, enhance transparency and make it easier for motorists to pay spot fines.
Spearheaded by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, the joint efforts signals a major step in digitising law enforcement and aligning policing with Zimbabwe’s e-Government and cashless economy push.
Authorities say the new system will eliminate the need for police officers to handle cash directly, a key source of corruption allegations, while ensuring that payments are made straight into Government accounts in real time.
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ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera told Parliament on Wednesday that the initiative would rely on Starlink satellite internet to guarantee connectivity even in remote areas.
“It is important that there are Point-of-Sale machines wherever police are conducting roadblocks,” said Minister Mavetera.
“We are engaging Starlink to ensure reliable internet access so that POS machines can function seamlessly across the country.”
According to The Herald, the deployment of Starlink will be crucial in enabling this programme, as its low-orbit satellite network offers uninterrupted high-speed internet coverage even in rural and remote highways.
Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Ambassador Raphael Faranisi said the development would bring convenience to both motorists and police officers.
“Since spot fines are a legal part of enforcement, POS machines will eliminate the need for cash handling, improve accountability and reduce opportunities for corruption,” said Faranisi.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the distribution of POS machines will begin soon, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to modernise policing operations.
“It’s an ongoing process…while timelines are being finalised, this system will bring convenience for both motorists and the police,” he said.
