Police to impound unregistered vehicles

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to motorists driving vehicles without registration plates, emphasizing that such vehicles will be impounded. The warning also applies to government vehicles, with no exceptions.

In a statement, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said, "The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns the public against driving vehicles with no registration plates." He reminded motorists that, under the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act, all vehicles, whether privately or company-owned, must have proper number plates when on the road.

"Government vehicles are not excluded from the number plates requirement," Nyathi added. The ZRP will confiscate any unregistered vehicles found operating on the country's roads.

The police also cautioned motorists against fitting vehicles with unauthorized lighting, such as ballad or bar lights, which violate road safety regulations. Commissioner Nyathi stated, "Any vehicle driven on the roads while fitted with ballad or bar lights in clear contravention of the country's laws and road safety requirements will be impounded, and the owner or driver prosecuted."

He urged motorists to adhere to traffic laws, emphasizing that these measures are meant to enhance road safety and protect lives.

In a related development, Commissioner-General of Police Stephen Mutamba has instructed law enforcement officers to arrest commuter omnibus (kombi) drivers whose touts hang dangerously on the backs of moving vehicles. This practice, often seen in urban areas, poses significant safety risks to passengers and other road users.

The ZRP's renewed crackdown aims to enforce compliance with traffic laws and curb dangerous behavior on the roads, as authorities strive to promote safer road use across the country.