Reduce time for reporting missing person: Parly told

Nyore Madzianike

Senior Reporter

HARARE Proportional Representative legislator Vivian Pamela Chitime has called on the police to reduce the waiting period before reporting a missing person, saying the current 72-hour policy is too long and could continue resulting in the loss of many lives.

Speaking during Tuesday’s House of Assembly sitting, MP Chitime suggested that the reporting time be cut from 72 hours to 12 hours, arguing that a shorter period would enable law enforcement to act swiftly and potentially save lives.

“I rise on a point of national interest. I am deeply disappointed and heartbroken by the increasing number of people going missing across Zimbabwe,” she said.

“Almost every week, families are left in pain and in some cases, the victims are later found dead with body parts missing.”

She described the existing Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) policy allowing reports only after 72 hours as “far too long.”

“Those first few hours are crucial for saving lives and tracing victims before harm is done,” she said.

“I therefore appeal to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and the Zimbabwe Republic Police to urgently reduce the reporting period from 72 hours to 12 hours or less so that our law enforcement officers can respond quickly and protect innocent lives,” MP Chitime added.

The MP further urged Parliament to act, requesting a resolution calling for immediate review and implementation of the proposed change.

“I request that this House pass a resolution calling for an immediate review of the policy and implementation of the proposed changes,” she said

“We owe it to our citizens to ensure their safety and security. Let us work together to protect our communities and bring hope to the families of missing persons.”

The Acting Speaker acknowledged MP Chitime’s call, saying the Clerk of Parliament would communicate the matter accordingly.

MP Chitime’s plea comes amid ongoing police efforts in Harare to find Moses Kugara Mushoriwa (46) who went missing on March 1, 2024, in Zengeza, Chitungwiza.