THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a nationwide crackdown on motorists driving without registration number plates and those illegally fitted with sirens, blue lights, beacons, and other unauthorised gadgets, resulting in the impoundment of over 1 000 vehicles.
According to police, the operation is aimed at restoring order on the country’s roads and ensuring all vehicles are properly identifiable. The crackdown comes in response to growing concerns that some motorists deliberately remove number plates to avoid being traced, complicating investigations and enforcement efforts when vehicles are involved in crimes or traffic violations.
“Vehicles without identification plates have increasingly appeared in serious criminal cases, including armed robberies, kidnappings, and hit-and-run accidents,” said a police spokesperson. “They are also frequently involved in dangerous road behaviour, including driving against traffic, ignoring red lights, and violating lane rules.”
The police operation is targeting all motorists, including private vehicles, government cars, company fleets, and public service vehicles. Officers are conducting strict compliance checks, and any vehicle found without number plates will be seized immediately and only released once proper registration procedures have been completed.
“All illegal sirens, blue lights, bar lights, beacons, and related gadgets will be removed on the spot with no excuses being entertained by the Zimbabwe Republic Police,” police warned.
The ZRP has urged motorists to comply with traffic regulations to avoid penalties, saying the operation is underway throughout the country and enforcement will be strict.
The crackdown has been welcomed by road safety advocates, who say it is a long overdue measure to address the country’s poor road safety record.
“We hope this operation will help to reduce the number of accidents and crimes committed by unregistered vehicles,” said a road safety expert. “It’s a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of these problems.”
