Police deny scrapping traffic fines at crime hotspots

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has dismissed reports suggesting that motorists caught violating traffic regulations at crime-prone intersections in Harare will have their offences automatically cancelled.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi clarified in a statement that the police had never announced plans to waive traffic violations captured by smart surveillance cameras at intersections regarded as potential crime hotspots.

The clarification follows concerns raised by motorists over the safety of stopping at certain traffic lights, particularly at night, amid fears of robbery and other criminal activities.

Comm Nyathi said traffic offences recorded by smart cameras would continue to be enforced, although individual cases could be considered based on their circumstances.

"The police has instead noted the concerns and clearly said that each case will be treated based on its merits as the cameras are monitored in real-time," the statement read.

He explained that the smart cameras serve a dual purpose, detecting traffic violations while also monitoring criminal activities at major road intersections.

The police said the surveillance system allows authorities to monitor developments in real time and respond to potential security threats.

Addressing fears about motorists being exposed to criminals when stopping at traffic lights after dark, Comm Nyathi said the Officer Commanding Harare Province was closely monitoring police deployments in the affected areas.

He maintained that strategic deployments had strengthened security at the identified intersections, with no criminal incidents recorded in those locations for some time.

The police insisted that motorists should not assume that perceived security risks automatically exempt them from complying with traffic regulations.

The clarification comes as authorities continue to expand the use of smart traffic monitoring technology to improve road safety and enforce traffic laws in urban areas.

Some motorists have expressed concerns that stopping at isolated intersections late at night could expose them to criminals, creating a dilemma between obeying traffic signals and protecting their personal safety.

However, the ZRP reiterated that any traffic violation committed under exceptional circumstances would be assessed individually rather than automatically cancelled.

Comm Nyathi urged motorists to remain vigilant while observing road signs, traffic lights and other regulations designed to protect road users.

He emphasised that the enforcement measures were intended to improve public safety and promote responsible driving across the country.

The police maintained that compliance with traffic regulations remains mandatory, including at intersections where motorists may have concerns about criminal activity.