Commissioner General Matanga guarantees security for SADC Summit

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner General Godwin Matanga has assured Heads of States, Government officials, and dignitaries attending the upcoming SADC summit that their security and safety are guaranteed

In a press statement issued yesterday, Commissioner General Matanga said that any individuals attempting to disrupt harmony within the country during and after the summit, where President Mnangagwa will assume chairmanship of the regional bloc, will be dealt with accordingly.

Commissioner General Matanga stated that a full deployment of officers and necessary resources has been made, not only in Harare, where the summit will take place, but across the country, which will also be commemorating Heroes and Defence Forces Day on Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

“As the Government of Zimbabwe hosts the forthcoming 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit from 17-18th August 2024, on behalf of the Zimbabwe Republic Police, I want to assure all the foreign dignitaries, visitors, and Zimbabweans that the Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed adequate police officers and resources to ensure that peace prevails not only in Harare but in all parts of the country,” said Commissioner General Matanga.

The Commissioner General noted that the SADC Summit will be preceded by the 2024 commemoration of the nation’s Heroes and Defence Forces holiday. In this regard, the Zimbabwe Republic Police deployments will cover all high-profile events, urging Zimbabweans to exhibit the law-abiding citizen philosophy for which the country is known worldwide.

“Let us welcome all the SADC dignitaries and tourists as we reiterate the police’s guarantee of their safety and security,” said Commissioner General Matanga.

He called on travelling motorists to exercise caution on the roads, warning them that deployments and vigilance will be executed by deployed officers.

“ZRP implores motorists to be exemplary in their driving conduct after the recent rehabilitation and construction of major roads in Harare and other parts of the country by the Government of Zimbabwe. In this regard, police officers deployed at roadblocks and other traffic enforcement duties will impound all unroadworthy vehicles and take stern action on any motorist found driving through red traffic lights, going against the flow of traffic, or creating third or fourth lanes on the roads,” said Commissioner General Matanga.

He added that the operation will include motorists found driving under the influence of alcohol and urged motorists to cooperate with police officers controlling or directing traffic at road junctions, traffic lights, and other points.

There will be a heavy police presence in residential, industrial areas, and central business districts through patrols, stop-and-search blitzes, and monitoring suspects who might want to take advantage of the impending holidays and the SADC Summit to commit criminal acts.

“May I also appeal to parents to prioritise the safety and security of children during this holiday. As the nation steps up the fight against drug and substance abuse, I urge the public to continue providing my office with information on drug barons and suppliers so that the law can take its course without fear or favour,” said Commissioner General Matanga.