Zimbabwe Police Crack Down on Hidden Number Plates and Probe Cow-Caused Fatal Crash

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) warned motorists that driving vehicles without visible registration plates or with plates concealed by bull bars and bumpers is an offence under the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act and the Road Traffic Act. Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the police have noted an increase in such violations and will intensify enforcement operations to ensure vehicles can be identified in criminal cases and road accidents.

Separately, ZRP launched an investigation after a collision on the Harare–Bulawayo Road in Insiza District in which a vehicle carrying Highlanders Football Club officials struck a cow, causing the driver to lose control and collide head‑on with a bus. The crash killed three club executives and a supporter. Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said detectives are pursuing the cow’s owner, noting that Zimbabwean law can hold livestock owners accountable for accidents involving stray animals on public roads.