Police Warn Against Parading Coffins in Harare CBD Funeral Processions

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has urged the public to conduct funeral processions lawfully and avoid unsafe practices that endanger road users.

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | HARARE

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned members of the public against parading coffins and carrying out funeral processions in central business districts (CBDs) and other public places as tributes to deceased vendors, kombi conductors or touts, saying the practice endangers public safety and violates the law.

In a statement released on Monday, police said they had observed an increase in funeral processions where coffins are displayed in busy streets or precariously mounted on top of moving vehicles to honour the occupations of the deceased.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police has noted with concern a growing trend where members of the public are parading and 'toy-toying' with bodies of deceased relatives or friends in Central Business Districts and other public places as a form of tribute to their vending, touting or kombi conducting activities," the statement said.

Police warned that some coffins are being transported in an unsafe manner during the processions.

"Some of the coffins will be paraded whilst hanging precariously on top of vehicles. This endangers public safety and puts the lives of other road users and pedestrians at risk."

According to the ZRP, the funeral processions have disrupted traffic flow, obstructed business operations in city centres and increased the risk of road accidents and public disorder. Authorities said while communities have the right to mourn their loved ones, funeral proceedings should be conducted in a manner that respects the law and protects the safety of the public.

The police reminded citizens that the handling and treatment of human remains are regulated under Zimbabwean law and warned that any conduct considered abusive or disrespectful could result in criminal prosecution.

"The law will definitely take its course without fear or favour on anyone found to be violating or abusing dead bodies," the statement said.

The warning follows several recent funeral processions in Harare and other urban centres that attracted large crowds and temporarily blocked major roads as mourners paid tribute to deceased transport operators and informal traders. Police urged funeral organisers to engage law enforcement authorities where processions are expected to pass through public roads or other public spaces to ensure safety and minimise disruption.

The ZRP also called on transport operators, vendors' associations and community leaders to educate their members about the dangers and possible legal consequences of unsafe funeral processions. Authorities said compliance with public safety regulations would help ensure that families are able to mourn their loved ones with dignity while protecting other road users and members of the public.

ZRP coffin parade warning