Violence instigators put on notice

Source: The Herald – Breaking news.

Commissioner Paul Nyathi.

Remember Deketeke, Herald Correspondent

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) will arrest anyone who interferes with the free flow of traffic and movement of the public, with police officers on standby to ensure peace prevails countrywide.

This comes after some cyber terrorists have been inciting Zimbabweans to demonstrate.

In a statement, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said Zimbabweans, today or any other day, were free to engage in their daily business or activities without let or hindrance.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is ready to ensure that the public is free to engage in all socio-economic activities without fear, intimidation, threats or harassment.

“We urge Zimbabweans to continue with their normal day-to-day lives. The police will be on the ground to ensure that peace prevails and that no one is unlawfully intimidated into any form of violence.”

Further, Comm Nyathi warned that any individuals attempting to interfere with public order would be met with the full force of the law.

“In this regard, the police will arrest anyone who interferes with the smooth flow of traffic and movement of the public. Instigators of violence and disruption of the normal operation of the economy will be severely dealt with.”

Purveyors of false information on social media platforms were also put on notice.

“The public is warned against abusing social media and is urged to disregard social media postings meant to cause chaos and alarm in the country,” police said.

On Sunday Government said people should continue exploring avenues of growing the economy and not pay attention to cyber terrorists who always wish the country bad.

“As we continue to celebrate our national independence, utilising the inclusive approach through decentralisation and devolution of national events, leaving no place and no one behind, we must remain united against cyber terrorism and enemies of progress,” said Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere in a statement.

“We have a responsibility to build our country. Zimbabweans should use the internet for development. We should ignore calls from unproductive charlatans and merchants of falsehoods, who seek to reverse the gains of the liberation struggle, through demonisation of Zimbabwe’s image, its people and leadership, through misinformation and malice.

“As Zimbabweans, we are hardworking, enterprising, focused people who have a responsibility to develop our country. We fought and we won. We conquered, we won and now we must continue to work together to develop our country.”

Meanwhile, ZRP said its officers would be on the ground throughout the country to ensure smooth traffic flow and secure environments for businesses, residents, and visitors, particularly those attending the upcoming ZITF in Bulawayo, which draws exhibitors and investors from across the globe.

“All local and foreign exhibitors attending the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair exhibition forum are assured of their security and safety,” said the police.

“We have taken comprehensive measures to provide a peaceful atmosphere for all activities related to ZITF.”