Johnson Progress

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba has issued a directive warning against the illegal use of blue lights, sirens, and bar lights on vehicles.

According to Mutamba, such fittings breach traffic laws and are strictly reserved for the Presidium.

“We have seen a number of vehicles illegally fitted with blue lights or sirens without authority from my office. This is the preserve of the Presidium,” Mutamba said, emphasizing that only authorized vehicles are permitted to use such equipment.

The only exceptions, he clarified, are ambulances, which are allowed to use sirens and red lights during emergency situations.

“The only exceptions are ambulances which are fitted with sirens and red lights which should be switched on during emergency cases,” Mutamba added.

Mutamba also expressed concern over vehicles fitted with bar lights, which are prohibited under Statutory Instrument 129 of 2015.

“I am also concerned with vehicles driven on the roads whilst illegally fitted with bar lights in clear contravention of provisions of Statutory Instruments 129/2015,” he said.

To enforce the directive, police commanders have been instructed to deploy officers strategically across the country to identify and penalize offenders.

“My office has directed police commanders to strategically deploy police officers to flush out all motorists, whether public or private, driving such vehicles without the requisite authority,” Mutamba said.

Those found in breach of the law will face consequences, including arrest and vehicle impoundment.

“Those found wanting shall be arrested and vehicles impounded. Citizens must observe road traffic laws,” Mutamba warned.

The operation is part of broader efforts to restore discipline on the roads and prevent misuse of vehicle markings that mimic official or emergency services.

Authorities are urging all motorists to comply with existing traffic regulations and avoid installing unauthorized accessories.

By cracking down on rogue motorists, including those misusing blue lights and sirens, the ZRP aims to maintain order and discipline on Zimbabwe’s roads.