The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has dismissed the United States’ advisory warning Americans against travelling to Zimbabwe. The advisory said Zimbabwe was an unsafe and insecure destination.

The ZRP insisted that Zimbabwe was safe noting that the police has intensified security for both civilians and tourists. In a statement, ZRP noted:

Contrary to the Zimbabwe Travel Advisory Level 2 issues by the Americans, the ZRP wishes to assure all Zimbabweans and visitors who include tourists to all parts of the country that the country remains safe, peaceful and secure.

The ZRP is conducting general patrols, blitz, stop and search patrols in all central business districts, industrial sites, residential areas and other places which are usually frequented by the public with a view of getting rid of the malady criminality.

Members of the public who include visitors to the country should feel free to seek clarity on security from the ZRP.

The US State Department travel advisory had warned its citizens that they should exercise increased caution in Zimbabwe. It also advised US citizens to monitor the local media for updates. The advisory said:

Violent crime such as assault, carjacking, and home invasion, is common (in Zimbabwe).” The US provides levels of advice ranging from 1 to 4, with Level 1 as the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk, while level 4 highly condemns travel to the nation.

Smashing the windows of cars with the intent to steal, which can harm the driver or passengers, is also common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.