Police in Bulawayo have urged residents to maintain law and order during the festive season, warning that officers will be deployed in full force to deal with criminal and disorderly conduct.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele made the remarks in her end-of-year message, noting that Bulawayo residents are generally peace-loving citizens. She said police would continue to discharge their duties “without fear or favour” to ensure public safety.
Msebele said December 31 is often characterised by activities such as vehicle spinning, drifting and skidding in undesignated areas, which pose serious risks.
“We urge the public to exercise caution,” she said. “These activities can lead to accidents, and we encourage people to engage in such sports only in designated areas.”
She said the officially designated area for vehicle spinning in Bulawayo is Emthunzini along Solusi Road, and urged motorists to refrain from skidding or spinning in the central business district.
“The Sports and Recreation Commission has officially recognised these activities as a sport, and we encourage the public to participate only at designated locations,” Msebele said.
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She also reminded liquor outlet operators and patrons to comply with stipulated opening and closing times.
“The law will be enforced without fear or favour. We urge everyone to adhere to these regulations,” she said.
Msebele expressed concern over an emerging trend of people setting up gas stoves and braai stands in the city centre and along roadsides.
“They sell food and grilled meat to members of the public, which poses significant risks, including fire hazards and health concerns related to unsanitary food preparation,” she said, urging residents to refrain from such practices.
She also warned against the use of fireworks and firecrackers, describing them as dangerous to both people and animals.
“Anyone wishing to use fireworks must obtain permission from the relevant authorities, such as the municipal or town council. Failure to do so will result in arrest for contravening the law,” she said.
Msebele noted that past incidents, particularly involving children, have demonstrated the dangers associated with firecrackers, including injuries and fires.
She further urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy to avoid having them impounded by police. Residents were advised to use designated pick-up and drop-off points and to avoid using illegal taxis.
“Ensure that your driver is sober. Even without a breathalyser, you can tell if someone is intoxicated. If you suspect a driver is unfit to drive, stop the journey or report the matter to the police,” she said.
Msebele also encouraged the public to report unlicensed liquor outlets, noting that drinking alcohol from parked vehicles, including from boots and loading boxes in public places, is against the law.
She said serious crimes, including murder, frequently occur at drinking establishments or as a result of domestic violence, often fuelled by alcohol and infidelity.
Msebele advised residents to avoid carrying or keeping large sums of money and urged parents to safeguard their children by being aware of their whereabouts at all times.
“Be vigilant against drugs and other substances that may lead to dangerous situations,” she said.