The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Masvingo has made a new rule that bans police officers from using mobile phones while they are working, and this rule starts right away.
A memo sent to all police stations in the Masvingo Central District says that police officers cannot have cellphones during their work hours. Officers must give their cellphones to the Officer in-Charge at the start of their shift. The Officer in-Charge will then keep the phones safe in a secure place until break and lunch times.
The memo also states that if an officer is caught using a cellphone while on duty, it will lead to disciplinary action against their Officer in-Charge.
Additionally, all police stations must change their rules to make sure there are clear guidelines on cellphone use while working. Officers must also sign to show that they understand these new rules to encourage everyone to follow them.
Check memo below
“Repeated hereunder is Officer Commanding Police Masvingo Province Memorandum number 2065/24 dated 28 October 2024 with the above subject matter.
1. Despite numerous instructions given forbidding the use of cell phones whilst on duty by members of the Police Service, commanders are not enforcing this.
2. With immediate effect, no member is allowed to be in possession of a cellphone whilst on duty. Cell phones should only be used during break and lunch times.
3. Once a member is found with a cellphone whilst on duty, the Officer in-Charge of the said member will be put to task.
4. Upon commencement of duty, the Officer in-Charge should take possession of the cell phones and lock them in the safe or cabinet.
5. All stations’ standard operating procedures should contain a clause governing the use of cell phones whilst on duty, and members should acknowledge having read and understood the SOPs.
6. May you kindly acknowledge receipt of this memorandum by 1000 hours on 02 November 2024.”
