Police resume statutory duties
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has now resumed its duties as required by the Constitution following the inauguration of President Emmerson Mnangagwa last week.
President Mnangagwa was appointed President following “Operation Restore Legacy” that was launched by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces to weed out corrupt elements that were causing social and political instability in the country.
In a joint statement by the ZDF and other security services, ZRP spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba said the appointment of the President Mnangagwa had set a new trajectory for the country.
“We, the ZDF and the Security Services of Zimbabwe wish to inform the nation that the situation has returned to normalcy following the historic inauguration of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Head of State and Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa on November 24, 2017, which has set a new trajectory.
“We wish therefore to assure the nation that the ZRP is now assuming its role as stipulated in the Constitution of Zimbabwe under Section 219, which among other things mandate the ZRP to maintain law and order, protect and secure lives and property of the people.
“You will soon notice the ZDF and ZRP members conducting joint patrols, especially in the Harare CBD.
“We urge you all progressive Zimbabweans to respect the country’s laws and co-operate with our officers as they perform their duties,” Snr Asst Comm Charamba said.
ZDF spokesperson Colonel Overson Mugwisi said they played complementary roles with other security agencies in the defence and maintenance of law and order in the country.
“We therefore remain committed to serve our country. Zimbabwe is a peace-loving nation as demonstrated during the past week. We accordingly urge all citizens to remain committed to peace.
“We remain guided by His Excellency President Mnangagwa’s inaugural speech, particularly where he spoke about unity and self-discipline by all.
“Let us all remain united and respectful of our national laws and by-laws as we uphold the rule of law,” Col Mugwisi said.
He warned criminals that were taking advantage of the situation to loot and illegally occupy other people’s properties.
“Law enforcement agents are already receiving reports of looting and illegal occupation of other people’s properties, particularly farms and houses.
“This behaviour is criminal and against the spirit of non-vengeful retribution and will be met by the full wrath of the law.
“The ZRP would want to assure the nation that it will strive to ensure that all its operations and programmes will be people centred in accordance with the vision of His Excellency, President Mnangagwa.”
BY Farirai Machivenyika
