Police threaten chaos, violence during SADC summit – ZimEye

By Farai D Hove | Harare, 9 August 2024 – Zimbabwe is on the brink of a potential crisis as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) issued a chilling warning that they plan to implement harsh and aggressive measures during the upcoming 44th Southern African Development Community Heads of State and Government Summit, scheduled for August 17-18, 2024. The police, led by Inspector-General of Police TG Matanga, made it clear that they will be carrying out an operation that many fear will result in widespread harassment and mayhem.

In a press statement, the Zimbabwe Police Force revealed its strategy of deploying a large number of officers across the country, not just in the capital Harare. The deployment is said to be to ensure “peace and security” and includes “stop and search” operations targeting ordinary citizens and suspected wrongdoers. This has raised great concerns about the possibility of arbitrary searches, harassment and abuse of power.

“We have deployed adequate police force and resources to ensure peace is maintained not only in Harare but across the country,” said DG Matanga, further stressing that “police deployed at roadblocks and other traffic enforcement posts will seize all unroadworthy vehicles and take strict action against any motorist who runs red lights, drives against traffic or creates a third or fourth lane on the road.”

Many viewed these comments as a direct threat to the public, who feared that the ZRP’s actions could turn into a full-blown crackdown on citizens during the summit. The director-general also hinted at tough action against motorists, warning: “This includes those found driving under the influence of alcohol.”

The aggressive posturing by the Zimbabwe Police Force comes as the country prepares to mark its Heroes and Defence Forces Day. However, rather than promoting a spirit of unity and peace, the measures planned by the police have sparked widespread concerns about the potential for chaos and unrest. The Inspector-General of Police made no attempt to soften the tone, insisting that police will “maintain visibility in residential areas, industrial areas and central business districts through patrols, stop-and-search and surveillance of suspects”.

Many citizens interpreted this as a precursor to heavy-handed police enforcement measures that could infringe on their rights and lead to unnecessary conflict. “The so-called ‘stop and search’ is pure intimidation,” commented a Harare resident who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s not about safety; it’s about creating fear and controlling people.”

The chief constable also addressed the issue of unlicensed liquor outlets, saying police “will take decisive action against anyone operating an unlicensed liquor outlet or house drinking establishment during this period”. He also warned owners of licensed outlets to “ensure that the required opening and closing times are adhered to”.

As dignitaries from the Southern African Development Community prepare to arrive, the mood in Zimbabwe is tense and citizens are bracing for a potentially tense period of scrutiny and possible infringements of their rights. Tough rhetoric and promises of tough enforcement action by the Zimbabwe Revolutionary Party have raised concerns that civil unrest and a breakdown in social order could occur in the coming days.

The Zimbabwe Revolutionary Party’s statement was meant to reassure the public but instead heightened fears of a harsh crackdown, with many fearing the summit would turn Zimbabwe’s streets into a battleground for police brutality. As the nation waited, tensions were palpable and the potential for conflict hung over what should have been a moment of national pride and international diplomacy.

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