The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has deployed officers to what the government calls hotspots across the capital, Harare.
Areas considered hot spots include all residential areas, shopping centres and the Central Business District. The police will conduct a stop and search following calls on social media for the public to demonstrate against the fuel hikes announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday night.
This was revealed by Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Cain Mathema in a statement released on Sunday. Said Matema:
My ministry assures all peace-loving citizens and visitors that the Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed officers in all residential, shopping centres and CBD to conduct patrols, surveillance, stop and search and in the process account for unruly elements who may try to disturb the tranquil environment which is prevailing in the country.
May I urge Zimbabweans to continue undertaking their various social and economic activities as usual. Members of the public should feel free to access services from various entities without any hindrance.
There has been simmering public anger since the new austerity measures were announced. The price of diesel and petrol has been increased by close to 200 per cent.
Related:
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ZCTU Calls For Nationwide Stay Away, To Start Midnight, Sunday, January 13
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Don’t Demonstrate Against Fuel Price Hike, You’ll Lose Your Limbs- Mutodi Warns Zimbabweans