Authorities in Zimbabwe have banned police officers from using mobile phones during working hours.

This directive, which requires officers to hand over their personal devices to supervisors upon arrival at their stations, aims to enhance accountability and control within the police force.

The memo detailing the ban does not specify reasons for this decision, but it is largely viewed as a response to ongoing concerns regarding police corruption.
The move follows the recent arrest of two traffic enforcement officers in Harare, who were filmed accepting bribes from public transport operators, a situation that sparked significant public outrage.

Police spokesperson, Paul Nyathi, described the two detained officers as “bad apples who do not deserve to be serving in the police service.”

The new policy is intended to reinforce a previous order sent to all stations late last month, stating that “despite numerous instructions given forbidding use of cell phones whilst on duty by members of the police service, commanders are not enforcing this.”
According to the circular, “no member is allowed to be in possession of a cell phone whilst on duty. Cell phones should only be used during break and lunch times.”

Station commanders have been instructed to enforce the ban strictly, with penalties for those who fail to comply.
The memo warns that “once a member is found with a cell phone whilst on duty, the officer in-charge of the said member will be put to task.”

The police force faces significant scrutiny over perceptions of corruption, largely attributed to low salaries and inadequate working conditions.