The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has instituted an immediate ban on cellphone use by officers on duty, following rising concerns over misconduct among its ranks. This new policy comes after a memo issued on October 31, 2024, directed all stations in Masvingo Central District to enforce the prohibition. The circular, signed by Superintendent Operations ZRP Masvingo Central District, emphasizes that officers may only use cellphones during designated break and lunch periods.

Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe, and ZRP Commissioner General Godwin Matanga have recently voiced concerns over police conduct, with Matanga pledging decisive action against officers caught engaging in corrupt practices. This crackdown was spurred by a viral video allegedly showing two ZRP officers at Mabvuku turn-off in Harare accepting bribes from motorists. The footage appears to capture officers Sergeant Chifamba and Constable Gunzva accepting cash from kombi and taxi drivers.

In response, the ZRP has detained the two officers, with Commissioner Nyathi condemning the misconduct. “These are bad apples who do not deserve to be serving in the Police Service,” Nyathi stated, reiterating the ZRP’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption. The new cellphone policy is part of broader efforts to reinforce discipline and accountability within the force.