With year-end festivities approaching, police in Bulawayo have urged the public to exercise caution and comply with the law, warning that reckless behaviour often recorded on December 31 has previously resulted in serious accidents and crime.
Bulawayo Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, cautioned against dangerous activities such as spinning, drifting and skidding in undesignated areas.
“As we approach 31 December 2025, a day often marked by various activities including spinning, drifting and skidding at undesignated areas, we urge the public to exercise caution. These activities can lead to accidents, and we encourage everyone to engage in such sports only in designated areas,” she said in a statement,
Inspector Msebele said that in Bulawayo, the designated area for spinning is Emthunzini along Solusi Road.
“The motoring public is urged to refrain from skidding or spinning in the CBD. The Sports and Recreation Commission has officially recognised these activities as a sport, and we encourage the public to participate at designated locations,” she said.
She also reminded liquor outlet operators and patrons to comply with legal operating hours, warning that the law would be enforced without fear or favour.
“We urge everyone to adhere to these regulations,” she said.
Inspector Msebele noted with concern that many serious crimes, including murder, often originate from drinking spots.
“As the police, we will be firm on the ground and continue to enforce the law without fear or favour,” she said.
She further warned against the emerging trend of people setting up gas stoves and braai stands in the CBD and along roadsides.
“These practices pose significant risks, including fire hazards and health concerns related to unsanitary food preparation. We urge the public to refrain from such activities,” she said.
Meanwhile, Inspector Msebele discouraged the use of fireworks and firecrackers, citing safety concerns for both people and animals.
“Anyone wishing to use fireworks must obtain permission from the appropriate authorities such as the municipal council, town council or district administrator, depending on the location. Failure to comply with the law will result in arrest for contravening Section 46(2)(c) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act,” she said.
She added that past incidents, particularly involving children, have highlighted the dangers of firecrackers, including fires and injuries.
Inspector Msebele also urged all road users to exercise extreme caution during the festive season.
“Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy to avoid inconvenience when vehicles are impounded. Use properly registered public service vehicles and avoid ‘mshikashika’ (illegal taxis), as they are uninsured and pose a risk in the event of injury or death,” she said.
She advised motorists to use designated pick-up and drop-off points, conduct thorough vehicle checks before travelling, avoid boarding overloaded buses and report speeding vehicles at police checkpoints.
“Make sure your driver is sober. Even without a breathalyser, signs of intoxication can be detected. If you suspect a driver is unfit to drive, stop the journey or report the matter to the police. Drive safely to arrive alive,” she said.
Inspector Msebele said the festive season often sees a rise in unlicensed drinking outlets such as shebeens and unregistered joints.
“These places are frequently linked to violent crimes, including murder. Police will raid such establishments and confiscate illegal liquor. Drinking from parked vehicles in public places is against the law,” she said.
She added that stop-and-search operations would be intensified and anyone found in possession of dangerous weapons such as knives, machetes or catapults would be arrested.
Business owners were urged to employ adequate security personnel, search patrons before entry, adhere to operating hours and install and monitor CCTV cameras.
Inspector Msebele noted that murder often occurs at drinking establishments or as a result of domestic violence, sometimes driven by infidelity.
She urged members of the public to resolve disputes amicably and avoid violence, particularly when intoxicated.
“Refrain from using dangerous drugs that encourage reckless behaviour,” she said.
She also advised residents travelling during the festive season to leave someone at home, hire reputable security guards, inform neighbours and register their homes under the police house supervision scheme.
Businesses were encouraged to avoid keeping large sums of money on their premises.
“Bank daily takings, use cash-in-transit services and if you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station. Vary your routes when going to or from the bank,” she said.
Inspector Msebele also urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s whereabouts at all times.
“Be vigilant against drugs and substances that may expose children to dangerous situations,” she said.
Motorists were reminded never to leave keys in the ignition or hand them to strangers.
“Park in secure areas and avoid leaving keys with guards. If you see an abandoned vehicle, notify the nearest police station,” she said.
She said police would be fully deployed during the festive season, including horseback patrols, cycle patrols, motorised units, drone surveillance and foot patrols.
“There will be 24-hour roadblocks, and we encourage the public to report suspicious activities using the following contacts: Bulawayo Police on 2273547 or 0789401080. We wish everyone a safe holiday season,” said Inspector Msebele.
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