ZRP Sheds Light On Viral Statement Threatening to Arrest Anyone Filming Accidents
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has clarified its stance regarding a circulating press statement that claimed they would arrest individuals for filming tragic incidents like car accidents instead of helping victims or calling for emergency services.
Also read: Zimbabwe Republic Police Issues Stern Warning Over Filming of Tragic Accidents, Supports Legal Action
The Controversial Statement
The bogus statement, titled “Filming of Tragic Incidents and Legal Action,” caused a stir on social media. It expressed the ZRP’s supposed concern over the growing trend of people recording life-threatening situations, describing the behaviour as morally wrong and harmful to victims and their families. Part of the statement read,
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police strongly condemns the distressing behaviour of individuals who choose to film citizens during tragic incidents, such as accidents or drownings, rather than offering assistance or calling for emergency services. This conduct is not only morally reprehensible but also constitutes a violation of the dignity and privacy of the victims and their families.”\
Also read: ZRP Addresses Viral Video of Mutare Police Officers “Fighting Over Bribe Money”
ZRP Clarifies Statement Threatening to Arrest Anyone Filming Accidents
On Monday evening, the ZRP took to X (formerly Twitter) to dismiss the statement as fake. They clarified that they did not issue such a statement and are actively hunting for the person(s) behind it.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police dismisses a fake press statement by a yet to be identified person titled, ‘Filming of tragic incidents and legal action‘. The Police has not issued the statement,” read their official response.
The ZRP urged the public to disregard the fake statement, pointing out that it had a fake signature.
“The public and media are urged to dismiss it with the contempt it deserves. The signature on the statement is not that of Commissioner Nyathi and clearly shows that it has been doctored,” the statement further reads.
Also read: Kuwadzana 7 Turn-Off Accident Kombi Driver Charged with Culpable Homicide
ZRP Warns Against Fake Press Statements
The police also issued a stern warning to individuals or groups attempting to release false statements on their behalf saying,
“The police warns individuals and groups trying to issue statements on behalf of the Zimbabwe Republic Police that the law will be applied on them without fear or favour.”
Calls for Account Verification
Following the ZRP’s clarification, many Zimbabweans called on the police to verify their official social media accounts to prevent confusion in the future. Here are some of the reactions:
@Chamunofara:
And to think that many actually praised you after that statement for a job well done, izvo hapana kana chamaita..
@DaddyKaAngel:
Verify your account
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