By Delight Guma
HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged parents, school authorities and transport operators to “prioritise the safety and security of children” as schools open for the third term, warning against unsafe transport practices and holding large sums of cash at schools.
In a statement, National Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said operators must ensure vehicles are roadworthy “before attempting to transport children to schools.”
He appealed to drivers to exercise caution, avoid speeding and obey all road rules to prevent crashes.
ZRP also advised families to avoid night travel for learners, citing heightened risks on the roads after dark.
“School authorities and transporters should ensure that buses and other forms of transport … are not overloaded at all costs,” read the statement on part.
With many schools collecting fees at the start of term, police urged administrators to bank funds rather than keep cash on site.
Depositing school fees and tuition payments at financial institutions will “help minimise the risk of robbery and theft, as large sums of cash at school premises attract criminal attention,” continued the statement.
Police have repeatedly warned against overloaded school transport and late-night travel during term openings, saying basic precautions—such as ensuring roadworthy vehicles, following speed limits, and handling fees securely—can significantly reduce risks for children.
