Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu, Deputy Echo Editor
POLICE Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba has urged motorists to avoid travelling at night during the festive season, warning that a worrying number of fatal crashes occur after dark due to reduced visibility and poor judgment on the roads.
In a statement launching the 2025 festive season policing plan, Commissioner-General Mutamba said the period traditionally records increased movement and activity, which tends to be accompanied by spikes in road accidents.
He said police had observed that many deadly collisions happen at night when drivers struggle with “vision and observation challenges,” and appealed to the public to adjust travel plans accordingly.
“We are urging motorists to minimise night travel because some fatal road traffic accidents occur during these hours as a result of limited visibility,” he said.
Commissioner-General Mutamba said police had embarked on nationwide enforcement operations, including roadblocks, traffic blitzes and stop-and-search patrols, to ensure safer roads.
He said officers will maintain visibility in CBDs, residential suburbs, industrial areas and leisure spots throughout the season.
While calling road safety a shared responsibility, he urged drivers to keep within speed limits, avoid overloading and plan journeys properly.
He also warned that the rainy period increases risks on the road, saying motorists should be cautious on slippery surfaces and “avoid attempting to cross flooded rivers or bridges.”
Commissioner-General reminded Public Service Vehicle operators to prioritise passenger welfare, while passengers have been encouraged to immediately alert police about reckless driving.
Commissioner-General Mutamba also warned that unroadworthy and defective vehicles would be taken off the road.
He urged the public not to board pirate taxis (mushika-shika or other non–public service vehicles), while private motorists were advised against giving lifts to strangers due to the risk of robbery.
Commissioner-General Mutamba said police remain committed to ensuring a safe holiday season but emphasised that motorists must make responsible decisions.
He said avoiding night travel remains one of the most important steps in reducing the number of fatalities recorded during this period.
