Online Reporter
Harmony Agere
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested 530 motorcyclists in a nationwide operation targeting unregistered motorcycles and violations of road traffic regulations.
In a statement released on Saturday, policee spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the arrests were made under the ongoing operation dubbed “Register Motor-Bikes and Wear Helmets”.
According to the police, 447 were arrested for operating unregistered or plateless motorcycles, while 83 individuals were arrested for riding without protective helmets.
Commissioner Nyathi said the operation was launched in response to persistent violations of road traffic laws by motorcyclists across the country.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police informs the public that, as part of the ongoing nationwide operation dubbed ‘Register Motor-Bikes and Wear Helmets’, a total of 530 arrests have so far been made,” reads the statement.
“Of these, 447 arrests are for operating unregistered or plateless motorcycles, while 83 arrests are for riding motorcycles without protective helmets.”
The police expressed concern that some riders continue to flout road regulations despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns.
Authorities noted that some motorcyclists are not only operating unregistered bikes but are also engaging in dangerous practices that put their lives and those of other road users at risk.
“The police have noted with concern that some motorcyclists continue to disregard road traffic laws by operating unregistered motorcycles, failing to wear helmets, carrying excess passengers and engaging in reckless riding conduct,” reads the statement.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that all motorcyclists, passengers and road users are required to comply with the provisions of the Road Traffic Act (Chapter 13:11) and other applicable regulations.”
Commissioner Nyathi said the enforcement exercise would continue throughout the country, with police officers carrying out regular compliance checks and other law enforcement activities.
He warned that offenders would continue to face arrest as the police seek to improve road safety and ensure adherence to traffic laws.
“The public is advised that the current operation will continue across the country, with police officers conducting regular compliance checks and enforcement activities for the safety of Zimbabweans,” reads the statement.
“Those found violating road traffic regulations will be arrested without fear or favour.”
