Online Reporter
Peter Matika
POLICE have strengthened the recently launched National Highway Patrol Unit with the release of three more rebranded Ford Everest vehicles, bringing the total number of vehicles assigned to the unit to nine.
The additional vehicles were officially handed over by the Commissioner-General of Police, Stephen Mutamba on Wednesday, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance visibility, efficiency and responsiveness on the country’s major highways.
The move comes at a critical time as traffic volumes are expected to increase during the festive season, a period traditionally marked by a rise in road traffic accidents and criminal activities along highways.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the expansion of the highway patrol fleet was aimed at promoting road safety, reducing accidents and curbing crime.
“After the release of five vehicles last week by the Police Commissioner General, three more vehicles have been added to complement the fleet, bringing the number to nine,” said Comm Nyathi.
He said the branded vehicles have a Quick Response (QR) code that can be scanned to make reports to the police.
“Motorists travelling along the country’s highways are urged to fully utilise the newly introduced reporting system embedded on police vehicles through a Quick Response (QR) code.”
“By scanning the QR code displayed on police vehicles, members of the public are immediately redirected to the police hotline, enabling them to promptly report any incidents occurring along the highways. We encourage motorists to make use of this facility to report all forms of unruly, dangerous or unjust behaviour, as this enhances swift police response and promotes road safety for all users,” said Comm Nyathi.
He added: “The public should take note that more National Highway Patrol vehicles are coming as the Zimbabwe Republic Police continues to capacitate this specialised unit,” said Comm Nyathi.
He said the National Highway Patrol Unit plays a pivotal role in enforcing traffic laws, responding to emergencies and maintaining law and order on major roads, particularly during peak travel periods.
Comm Nyathi urged motorists to cooperate with police officers on patrol and to strictly observe traffic regulations, including speed limits, vehicle roadworthiness requirements and sober driving.
“As we approach the festive season, we appeal to all road users to prioritise safety. Observing traffic laws will not only protect lives but also help ensure a peaceful and enjoyable holiday period for everyone. Police reiterated its commitment to reducing road carnage and criminal acts on highways through increased patrols, visibility and the deployment of modern vehicles, with further additions to the National Highway Patrol Unit expected in the near future,” said Comm Nyathi.
Bongani Ndlovu
Colletta Dube
Sometimes what happens in this country would be hilarious if it wasn’t serious. A lot of vehicles are dished out to individuals by the President and other prominent business people as tokens of appreciation for whatever it is they do and our police receives only THREE vehicles and it makes big news??? Imagine how much of a benefit to the country had all the cars given to ZANU-PF stalwarts, musicians, sports people et al had been given to our police?