In an effort to embrace technology in law enforcement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is incorporating drones into its operations to enhance crime control.
According to ZRP, the project is part of a larger strategy to modernise the force, including the recently implemented Electronic Traffic Management System (ETMS), which uses advanced technologies such as sensors and cameras to monitor traffic flow and detect violations in real time.
The ETMS enables law enforcement to identify motorists who violate traffic signal laws and crack down on reckless driving in Harare Central Business District, with plans to expand to other cities.
To this end, 27 police officers have earned drone pilot certification to identify criminality using airborne technology.
Additionally, police officials are now equipped to operate Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in accordance with Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe standards.
Learn Ncube, Deputy Commissioner General (Crime and Operations), addressed the graduates, highlighting the necessity of incorporating technology into crime prevention efforts.
“This marks a monumental day in the history of law enforcement as we embrace technology in the fight against crime.”
Furthermore, he stated that the integration of drone technology was a critical step towards achieving the ZRP's Strategic Plan Horizon 2025, which focuses on consolidating public engagement in policing and ensuring national priorities such as governance, institutional capacity, and human development by creating a safe and secure environment.
“The commissioner general of police’s thrust of modernising the ZRP through the Electronic Traffic Management System and use of technology in crime management is certainly taking effect,” said ZRP on its X account.
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