Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
POLICE have released a list of 284 motorists in Bulawayo who were caught on camera violating traffic regulations by driving through red lights, as the Electronic Traffic Management System (ETMS) begins to clamp down on errant drivers.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, stated that the system is currently operating at limited capacity in Bulawayo but is undergoing upgrades that will soon provide more comprehensive details of traffic offenders.
“The Electronic Traffic Management System in Bulawayo is currently capturing vehicle registration numbers only. This is a temporary measure, and an upgrade is underway to enhance the system’s capabilities,” he said.
Commissioner Nyathi said that once the system is fully upgraded, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) will release full particulars of the captured offenders.
In contrast, Harare’s upgraded system now automatically records the offender’s national identity number along with the registered vehicle owner’s information, enabling authorities to act swiftly.
Since the system’s launch, the ZRP has recorded over 20 000 vehicles violating road rules across the country, with the list of offenders being released in batches.
Commissioner Nyathi advised motorists or institutions with vehicles bearing the listed registration numbers to report to the nearest police station and co-operate fully with the ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, police have expressed concern over the low response rate from offenders identified in previous notices.
In Harare, only 95 out of 270 motorists named in the initial batch have come forward.
“It is disturbing that only 95 motorists came forward for the law to take its course. In this regard, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has set up crack teams to track and follow up on errant motorists throughout the country,” he said.
“Police will effect arrests and impound the vehicles of offending motorists, compile dockets, and present the suspects before the courts.”
The Electronic Traffic Management System, which employs high-definition surveillance cameras, is designed to monitor and capture a range of traffic violations, including disobeying traffic signals.
