By Ziyah News Reporter
Harare-The Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed manpower to maintain peace and security as the country prepares to host the historic SADC Heads of State and Government this coming week.
The SADC Summit will be preceded by two traditional holidays that is the Heroes and Defence Forces Days making the week a potentially high risk in terms of law breakers exacerbated by threats of demonstrations by some opposition and civic society groupings. The ZRP has thus positioned its force heavily to make sure peace prevails.
“I want to assure all foreign dignitaries, visitors and Zimbabweans that the Zimbabwe Republic police has deployed adequate police officers and resources to ensure that peace prevails not only in Harare but in all parts of the country,” said Commissioner General of the Police, Godwin Matanga.
Commissioner Matanga also urged Zimbabweans including motorists to maintain high levels of discipline as the country host the SADC region and have two key holidays in the same week beginning the Heroes one tomorrow.
“I therefore urge Zimbabweans to exhibit the law abiding citizen philosophy through which our country is known for in the world. Let us all welcome the SADC dignitaries and tourists as we reiterate the Police’s guarantee of their safety and security.
“The ZRP implores motorist to be exemplary in their driving conduct after the recent rehabilitation and construction of major roads in Harare and other parts of the country by the Government,” he said.
The police is also assuring the public that road blocks will be in place to deal with errant motorist and the full presence of the police will also be felt in the residential areas. For the guest, ZRP will mann all places where visitors will be staying and touring to make sure they are safe from any unbecoming behaviour from any unruly elements.
With schools on closed, Commissioner Matanga called upon parents to be vigilant and ensure their children are shielded from the scourge of drugs.
“I also appeal to parents to prioritise the safety and security of children during this holiday. As the nation steps up the fight against drug and substance abuse in the country, I urge the public to continue giving my office information on drug barons and suppliers for the new law to take its course without fear or favour,” he implored.
The country will host the SADC region this week, as it assumes the chairmanship of the regional bloc. There has been threats of unsanctioned flash demonstrations that has seen a wave of arrests and questioning by the police leading up to the Summit.