MOTORISTS have welcomed the rollout of body-worn cameras, drones and modern traffic technology by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), describing the move as a major step towards curbing corruption and abuse by traffic officers.
The technology rollout forms part of a broader ZRP modernisation programme aimed at boosting transparency, improving road safety and restoring public trust in law enforcement, following years of public complaints over bribery, harassment and reckless driving on the country’s roads.
Motorists said the introduction of cameras was long overdue and would promote accountability while protecting both police officers and civilians.
“This is a good move because it promotes transparency,” said a motorist, Caroline Chizivano.
“If both the police officer and the citizen know that everything is being recorded, there will be fewer misunderstandings and cases of abuse.
“It also protects officers who are doing their jobs professionally.”
The rollout forms part of a broader modernisation drive within the ZRP, aimed at improving efficiency and public confidence.
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Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba last week said officers would now be required to wear visible name tags and body cameras while on duty.
“We are modernising the police force in line with global best practices,” Mutamba said.
“Every officer on duty must be properly identified and equipped with a body camera.”
In addition to body cameras, speed cameras have been activated on major highways to curb reckless driving, while drones are being deployed in Harare and Bulawayo to assist with traffic management, crime monitoring and crowd control.
Another motorist Brendon Mudzi said the technological upgrade was key particularly for road safety.
“Speeding has become a serious problem and many accidents can be avoided if motorists obey traffic laws,” he said.
“With speed cameras in place, drivers will think twice before speeding.
“The drones will also help police to respond quickly to incidents.”
Police officials confirmed that clear guidelines are being developed to govern the use, storage and access of recorded footage, while officers are undergoing training on the operation of the new equipment.
The introduction of body cameras follows the recent launch of the Smart Traffic Enforcement System in major cities, which has led to multiple arrests for traffic violations.
