Online Reporter
Patience Ndlovu, Chronicle Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police, Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, on Wednesday held a safety awareness campaign aimed at encouraging motorists to practice diligent driving during the upcoming Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day holidays.
The campaign, conducted in collaboration with other stakeholders, sought to remind motorists, passengers, and pedestrians to adhere to all traffic regulations to help prevent accidents.
Speaking at the event, Officer Commanding Bulawayo Province, Commissioner Jasper Chizemo, noted a significant rise in road accidents recorded in the city between May and July and urged motorists to exercise caution while driving.
“We have recorded 837 road traffic accidents between May and July 2025 with 183 injured. Sadly, most of the victims were school children. Our message to the motorists is: do not overspeed because speed kills when you are driving; respect other road users when you are driving; respect those passengers on board; and please do not drink and drive,” he said.
Commissioner Chizemo also warned against vehicle overloading, which contributes to road accidents.
“We are also warning operators not to overload their vehicles. Your vehicles must meet the minimum requirements in terms of load. That is to say, any Public Service Vehicle (PSV) should have a certificate of fitness and passenger insurance,” he said. “As we are working with other stakeholders, we are going to unhesitatingly seize and detain those vehicles that are ignoring these traffic laws.”
As the holidays approach, Commissioner Chizemo further cautioned the public to be vigilant about crime.
“Let’s be alert. We are aware that in Bulawayo, we are going to face challenges to do with ‘vuzu’ parties, and we encourage parents to monitor children and ensure no child partakes. Those that are selling beer on motor vehicles are committing an offense, and as the police, we shall patrol and arrest anyone who is committing such a crime,” said the Commissioner.
He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities during the holiday, assuring them of increased police patrols.
“I would like to thank the community of Bulawayo through the management of drug and substance abuse. We have received a lot of tips and made very good arrests. Lastly, I want to say happy and safe holidays to everyone.”
