The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has called on parents, guardians, school authorities, and the general public to prioritize the safety and security of children as schools reopen for the 2025 First Term on January 14.
In a statement issued on Monday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi emphasized the need to ensure the safety of learners during their commute to and from school, urging transport operators to maintain roadworthy vehicles and comply with all traffic regulations to prevent accidents.
He also advised parents and school authorities to avoid nighttime travel for learners, as it poses additional risks, including road traffic accidents and exposure to criminal activities. Commissioner Nyathi further highlighted the importance of depositing school fees and tuition payments directly into financial institutions to reduce the risk of robberies, noting that large sums of cash on school premises can attract criminal attention, often based on information from individuals close to school staff.
The public was also encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the police by contacting the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, sending a WhatsApp message to 0712 800 197, or visiting the nearest police station.
The ZRP’s appeal underscores the need for collective responsibility to ensure a safe and secure environment for learners as the new term begins.
