Between December 15 and yesterday, there were 1,211 traffic incidents nationwide that resulted in at least 77 fatalities and 401 injuries.
In the same time frame last year, there were 1,454 registered traffic incidents, resulting in 71 fatalities and 393 injuries.
According to a statement released by national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, “The Zimbabwe Republic Police has established that, on occasion, drivers’ negligence and fatigue are the cause of accidents.”
The majority of traffic accidents involving private automobiles resulted in the deaths of either drivers or passengers.
Two people were killed in the sole significant traffic accident involving public transportation vehicles, which occurred on December 22, 2024, when three buses collided.
According to him, 106 traffic incidents were reported on December 22, 2024, resulting in seven fatalities and 38 injuries.
Thirteen persons lost their lives and sixteen were injured in 104 traffic incidents that were reported on Christmas Day. Eleven persons were killed and forty injured in 87 automobile accidents that were reported on December 26, 2024.
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There have also been documented incidents with pedestrians attempting to cross the roadways. Comm Nyathi advised drivers to use caution, particularly when approaching populated areas or public gathering spots, such as residential neighborhoods.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police, meanwhile, have reaffirmed that drivers should refrain from speeding and passing in situations where it is obviously unsafe to do so.
Above all, drivers are urged to avoid overloading their cars when they are on the nation’s roadways. The public is encouraged to report reckless driving on the road by calling the National Complaints Desk at 0242 703631 or 0712 800 197 on WhatsApp.
“Without fear or favor, the Zimbabwe Republic Police will continue to enforce all traffic laws and regulations.” However, drivers are urged to exercise responsibility and make a meaningful contribution to national road safety, according to Comm Nyathi.
In order to maintain peace and order, the Zimbabwe Republic Police promised this week that they had sufficiently positioned themselves on all major thoroughfares, residential neighborhoods, core business districts, and locations where people congregate to celebrate.
To reduce crime and traffic accidents, there are more roadblocks, traffic blitzes, stop and search procedures, and motorized and bicycle patrols.
Police will make sure that people enjoy the holidays in a calm way, according to Comm Paul Nyathi.
Additionally, he called on all parties involved—including transporters—to put the public’s safety and security first.
Motorcyclists without helmets who are riding or moving on the roadways, some of whom are carrying passengers, were cautioned by the police that arrests would be made and that the law would be applied without mercy or fear.
As the public celebrates the start of a new year, individuals, institutions, and businesspeople must abide by the law’s provisions regarding the use of fireworks, fire crackers, and other devices that could jeopardize public safety and security.
Police were also taking action against those involved in drug and substance abuse.
