ZRP on high alert amid influx of returnees

POLICE have intensified security operations across the country and at major ports of entry following an increase in the number of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, with authorities moving to safeguard returnees while preventing criminals from exploiting the increase in cross-border movement.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said officers had been deployed to monitor the situation and were working closely with other Government security agencies to maintain peace and security.

“As the Zimbabwe Republic Police, we are prepared to maintain peace and monitor the situation. As an organisation, we are here to ensure that all citizens returning home and those who have been here are safe,” he said.

Comm Nyathi said while the priority was to facilitate the safe return of Zimbabweans, police remained alert to organised criminal syndicates that often take advantage of increased human traffic across borders.

“While our priority is to ensure the safety of our returning citizens, we remain vigilant against any criminal activities that may threaten public safety. Police will continue monitoring border areas and major transport routes as part of ongoing efforts to curb the smuggling of firearms, dangerous weapons and other illicit goods into the country,” he said.

Zimbabwe has recorded an increase in the number of citizens returning from South Africa since last month following renewed violence against migrants in parts of the neighbouring country, which has forced many foreign nationals to flee for safety.

The Government has maintained that returning Zimbabweans will continue to receive assistance through coordinated reception and reintegration programmes being implemented by relevant ministries to facilitate their safe return to their communities.

President Mnangagwa has repeatedly assured citizens that Government will continue to prioritise their welfare and has pledged that Zimbabweans affected by the unrest will receive support upon their return.

The latest wave of xenophobic violence has revived memories of previous attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa, where thousands of Zimbabweans have, over the past two decades, been displaced, lost businesses and employment, or abandoned their possessions while fleeing violence.

Zimbabwe and South Africa share one of Southern Africa’s busiest migration corridors, with thousands of people crossing through Beitbridge Border Post daily for employment, trade, education and family commitments.

During periods of increased cross-border movement, security agencies traditionally strengthen border surveillance and immigration checks to prevent criminal networks from exploiting the movement of legitimate travellers to smuggle firearms, stolen vehicles, drugs and other contraband.

Comm Nyathi said police would continue maintaining vigilance while ensuring that law-abiding travellers were treated with dignity and respect.

“It is against this background that the ZRP will continue maintaining heightened vigilance while ensuring that law-abiding citizens are treated with dignity and respect,” he said.

Comm Nyathi appealed to members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities, saying maintaining peace and security remained a shared national responsibility.

“Our message is simple. Zimbabwe remains peaceful and the Zimbabwe Republic Police is fully prepared to safeguard everyone in the country. We encourage members of the public to continue supporting police efforts by reporting criminal activities while welcoming fellow Zimbabweans returning home,” said Comm Nyathi.