Zimbabwe police warn rogue elements

Police have said they are aware of some political activists who want to mobilise people to move into groups in the city centre to cause demonstrations under the guise of voter verification.

According to police, these rogue elements are openly inciting violence and issuing threats aimed at causing alarm and despondency among the public.

In a statement, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said they will not hesitate to arrest such criminal elements.

"As the country moves into the post-election period after the announcement of Presidential, National Assembly and Local Authority election results, the Zimbabwe Republic Police reassures the public, business and visitors to the country that the security situation remains peaceful, calm and conducive for all socio-economic activities to prevail.

"Zimbabweans should feel free to go to their work places, to conduct family and other activities without fear or any form of intimidation from anyone," he said.

He said the Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed police officers throughout the country to maintain law and order.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police is fully aware of attempts by some political activists to mobilize groups of people to move in small numbers and come to Harare for purported briefing and popcorn demonstrations under the guise of citizen voter audit or verification.

"This has even been given credence by some social media posts obtained by the Police where some individuals and groups are openly inciting violence and issuing threats aimed at causing alarm and despondence among Zimbabweans. The police will not hesitate to effect arrests on such criminal elements," Asst Comm Nyathi said.

He said the public should feel free to report these criminal acts on National Complaints Desk number (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp number 0712 800 197.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that the situation in the country is very calm and the public should certainly feel free to go about their day to day activities," he said.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has urged political parties to assist in the maintenance of law and order in the country by avoiding unsanctioned car rallies, processions and other celebratory activities without notifying the local regulating authority in terms of the Maintenance of Order and Peace Act Chapter 11:23.

Asst Comm Nyathi said any form of unlawful political gatherings will be dealt with by the police in terms of the country's laws.

"Finally, the Police continues to applaud and commend Zimbabweans for the exemplary conduct shown during the pre-election and the voting period," he said