Peter Matika, Senior Zimpapers Writer
The clock is ticking toward 2026, and Bulawayo police want the party without the peril — urging residents to keep celebrations safe as security sweeps the city.
Working with various stakeholders in the city, police have warned that reckless behaviour, unlawful festivities and road indiscipline will not be tolerated.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, cautioned against dangerous activities commonly associated with New Year’s Eve celebrations, particularly illegal spinning, drifting and skidding on public roads.
“As we approach the 31st of December 2025, a day often marked by spinning, drifting and skidding in undesignated areas, we urge the public to exercise caution as these activities can lead to serious accidents and loss of life,” she said.
While spinning has earned recognition as a sport under the Sports and Recreation Commission, Insp Msebele stressed that it belongs in controlled environments —not on city streets. Bulawayo’s official venue for the sport is Emthunzini along Solusi Road.
“The motoring public is urged to refrain from spinning or skidding in the Central Business District. Participation must be confined to designated areas,” she said.
Beyond street stunts, police are urging motorists and passengers to prioritise safety during the festive rush. That means ensuring vehicles are roadworthy and sticking to properly registered public service vehicles.
“Members of the public should avoid mshikashika vehicles, which are uninsured and pose serious risks. Passengers must also avoid overloaded buses and report speeding vehicles at police checkpoints,” said Insp Msebele.
She further advised road users to ensure that drivers are sober. “If a driver appears intoxicated, the journey should be stopped, or the matter reported to the police. Drive safely to arrive alive,” she said.
Zimbabwe Spinners Association (Zisa) Bulawayo chairperson and founder of ZKS Spinners Arena, Mr Zakhele Mlilo, also warned motorists against illegal spinning, drifting, racing and speeding, saying such activities pose a serious threat to public safety.
Mr Mlilo said Zisa would partner police to curb illegal activities on New Year’s Eve.
“The growing culture of illegal spinning, drifting, racing and speeding on public roads threatens lives and undermines road safety efforts.
“Motorsport remains legitimate only when conducted at designated and regulated facilities,” he said.
Mr Mlilo called for continued collaboration between authorities and motoring organisations to educate the public and enforce traffic laws, urging motorists to channel their passion into safe and regulated environments.
On fireworks, Insp Msebele discouraged their use, citing risks to people, animals and property.
“Anyone wishing to use fireworks must obtain permission from the relevant authorities, such as the local authority or district administrator, depending on the area,” she said.
Insp Msebele warned that offenders would be arrested for contravening Section 46 (2) (c) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which prohibits lighting fires or setting off fireworks in public places without authority.
“Past incidents, particularly involving children, have demonstrated the dangers of firecrackers, including injuries and fires,” said Insp Msebele.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer, Mr Mhlangano Moyo, condemned the use of fireworks and firecrackers, warning that they could cause serious property damage.
“We don’t condone the use of firecrackers as they can cause serious damage, especially in areas with thatched roofs and gazebos. As the Fire Department, we do not tolerate their use,” he said.
Insp Msebele expressed concern over the setting up of gas stoves and braai stands in the CBD and along roadsides, describing the practice as a fire hazard and a health risk due to unsanitary food preparation.
She also warned against the proliferation of unlicensed liquor outlets, including shebeens, which are often linked to violent crime.
Insp Msebele said liquor outlets and patrons must comply with lawful operating times, warning that police would enforce the law without exception.
“We have noted that serious crimes, including murder, often originate from drinking spots. Police will be firm on the ground and continue to enforce the law.
“Police will take decisive action, including raids and the confiscation of illegal goods. The public is encouraged to report unlicensed liquor outlets. Drinking from parked vehicles in public places is against the law,” she said.
Insp Msebele added that stop-and-search operations would be intensified and that anyone found in possession of dangerous weapons such as knives, machetes or catapults would be arrested.
Business owners were advised to employ adequate security measures, enforce searches at entry points, observe operating hours and install functional CCTV systems.
Insp Msebele said crimes commonly recorded during the festive season include murder, unlawful entry, theft, armed robbery, rape and motor vehicle theft.
“Murder often occurs at drinking establishments or arises from domestic disputes. We urge people to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid violence, particularly when intoxicated,” she said.
Residents were encouraged to secure homes and businesses when travelling, bank takings regularly, avoid carrying large sums of cash and monitor the safety of children at all times.
Police will be fully deployed throughout the festive period, utilising horseback, cycle, motorised and foot patrols, as well as drone surveillance. Twenty-four-hour roadblocks will also be in place.
“We encourage the public to report suspicious activities and assist the police with information,” said Insp Msebele.
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