Zimbabwe police urge parents to protect minors from alcohol abuse

As the country enters the festive season, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to parents and guardians to be vigilant and prevent minors from consuming alcohol and other intoxicating substances. This comes in light of rising concerns over underage drinking, with alarming reports and social media videos showing minors visibly intoxicated at social gatherings.

In a statement ahead of the Unity Day, Christmas, and New Year holidays, outgoing Police Commissioner-General Godwin Tandabantu Matanga expressed serious concern over the practice, urging parents and guardians to refrain from allowing children to partake in alcohol consumption under the guise of festive celebrations.

"May I take this opportunity to strongly warn parents and guardians who allow minors under the guise of merry-making to partake in beer drinking orgies," Matanga said, emphasizing the risks posed to young people who are exposed to such behavior.

He also took the opportunity to address the operations of unlicensed liquor outlets, known locally as "shebeens," which have been reported for violating the Liquor Act by operating outside of stipulated hours and serving alcohol to minors.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police has taken note of reports of liquor outlets in some Central Business Districts and residential areas which are not observing the provisions of the Liquor Act, Chapter 14:12 by operating outside their stipulated opening and closing times. Some are even allowing minors to access alcohol through their facilities," Matanga added. "Arrests will be made, and the law will certainly take its course."

The ZRP has committed to ensuring that this issue is addressed throughout the festive season, with a special focus on curbing the illegal sale and consumption of alcohol by minors. Police will also increase patrols and conduct random checks on liquor outlets to enforce compliance with the law.

In addition, Matanga warned that law enforcement would be on high alert to prevent the smuggling of goods across the country's borders during the holiday season. ZRP will be deploying 24-hour roadblocks to curb the illegal trafficking of goods such as second-hand clothes, gadgets, cars, and food items.

"Police officers will also take action against anyone found engaging in the smuggling of goods into and out of the country. I encourage all importers and exporters to lead by example and officially declare all goods at the country's ports of entry and exit," said Matanga, stressing that authorities would be resolute in tackling this issue.

Road safety is also a priority during the holiday period. Matanga announced that ZRP will intensify roadblocks, traffic blitzes, and patrols to ensure the safety of all road users. He warned that unroadworthy vehicles and illegal pirate taxis, locally known as "mushika-shika," would not be allowed to pass police checkpoints. Drivers of public service vehicles were also cautioned to minimize night travel, as fatal accidents tend to occur after dark.

"Road safety campaigns will include education to prevent accidents, promote compliance with road rules, and enforce strict penalties for violations. We will impound all defective and unroadworthy vehicles," said Matanga.

The ZRP will also be monitoring potential criminal activities such as robbery and violent crimes. Citizens are encouraged to avoid keeping large sums of money in their homes or businesses to reduce the risk of theft during the holidays.

Additionally, Matanga urged the public to notify the police before using fireworks or other devices that could disrupt public safety during the celebrations.

The ZRP's heightened presence throughout the festive season aims to maintain peace, prevent crime, and ensure the safety and security of all Zimbabweans as they celebrate Unity Day, Christmas, and the New Year.