Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern directive, unequivocally stating that its officers are prohibited from entering betting shops or engaging in gambling at casinos while in uniform. This move underscores the force’s commitment to safeguarding its public image and upholding rigorous professional standards.
The significant announcement was made by National Police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, in Harare over the past weekend. Commissioner Nyathi delivered the directive during the inaugural H-Metro National Forum on Responsible Betting, an event hosted at the Alex Sports Club.
The forum, a collaborative effort with the Lotteries and Gaming Board and various industry stakeholders, centred on fostering ethical gambling practices amidst the sector’s rapid expansion.
Commissioner Nyathi highlighted that images circulating on social media, depicting uniformed police officers gambling inside betting establishments, were severely tarnishing the reputation of the police service.
He emphatically stressed that such behaviour is not permissible under ZRP regulations and issued a clear warning: any officers found in violation of this directive will face swift disciplinary action.
While some delegates at the conference suggested that the officers might have been conducting regulatory compliance checks, Commissioner Nyathi dismissed this notion. He clarified that the police force maintains a dedicated compliance unit which operates as a coordinated team, rather than through individual, unsolicited visits.
In addition to the internal directive, Commissioner Nyathi also cautioned gambling operators against allowing individuals under the age of 18 into betting shops or casinos. He reiterated that this constitutes a breach of the law that will not be tolerated by the ZRP.
Casino owners present at the forum confirmed that their existing policies already align with this directive, prohibiting both police officers and soldiers from gambling while in uniform.
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