Zim police "capacitated to deal with polls"

The Zimbabwe Republic Police have reiterated their commitment to safeguard the nation as the country gears up for the holding of the referendum and general elections.

Deputy Commissioner General Levy Sibanda, who was addressing police officers leaving for United Nations peace-keeping duties and those who have completed their tour of duty, said the force's capacity to preside over these events cannot be underestimated saying the experience gained by officers in United Nations peacekeeping missions will increase professionalism.

"It is important to understand fully that in all these processes, the mandate of the organisation remains firm and undiluted. The organisation has policed elections before. The ZRP has requisite ability and capacity to take the challenge," said Deputy Commissioner General Sibanda.

A total of seven officers have returned from South Sudan after successful peace-keeping operations.

Another contingent of nine officers is set to leave for the same mission.

The United Nations continues to show confidence in Zimbabwe's police officers by engaging them to participate in peace-keeping missions despite efforts by some quarters to discredit the security forces.