The Sunday News
Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter
POLICE are going to maintain a heavy presence to ensure there is observance of law and order and curb rowdy celebrations as well as all forms of crime tonight which is the New Year’s Eve.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi yesterday said police would not hesitate to arrest anyone who commits crime by celebrating the New Year by destroying public property or making noise that would inconvenience other residents.
“We have said in terms of deployment, we are out in full force to maintain law and order and anyone who commits crime will be arrested, there is no going back on that,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
The police further warned members of the public that the use of fireworks was illegal and dangerous and could have negative consequences for both humans and animals saying those who wish to fire them should approach their local authorities and police stations.
“We further warn members of the public that fireworks pose a serious fire hazard and can cause physical and psychological harm to people and pets. In the past we have witnessed that firecrackers can injure or even kill a person as there have been reports of people who have faced health and other dangers caused by firecrackers, as such, we encourage those who wish to fire these to approach their local authorities as well as their local police to get clearance to do so,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
Asst Comm Nyathi said parents should ensure they do proper parenting to avoid minors engaging in unscrupulous behaviour like drinking alcohol as witnessed on Christmas Day.
“We encourage parents to exercise their parenting role effectively. During Christmas we witnessed minors drinking alcohol as partly a result of poor parenting,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
He called on the public to cooperate with the police and other security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities or criminal acts saying police will be on patrol to ensure security throughout the festive season.
He said they were collaborating with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure adequate crime preventive measures during the festive season.
Asst Comm Nyathi reminded motorists to observe traffic rules and regulations, avoid speeding or reckless driving that might endanger their lives and those of other road users. — @nyeve14
