ZRP Investigates Officer Over Viral Tourist Video

Southerton Business Times

Aug 30

2 min read

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an investigation into a viral social media video allegedly showing a police officer asking a foreign tourist for an iPhone instead of a US$30 traffic fine. The video was initially posted on Instagram by an account called Buggyteeth and has since circulated widely on social media.

The footage appears to show two foreign tourists riding motorbikes being stopped by a police officer after allegedly failing to stop at a stop sign. During the encounter, the officer reportedly tells the tourists that the traffic fine is US$30. The tourists then appear to ask whether they can receive a warning instead of being fined.

The conversation takes a different turn when the officer allegedly asks one of the tourists for an iPhone. The circumstances surrounding the video, including when and where it was recorded, have not yet been independently established.

Police launch investigation

The ZRP confirmed on Sunday that it had taken note of the video and had begun investigations.

“Reference is made to a video circulating on social media platforms purportedly showing a police officer manning a roadblock allegedly negotiating with a tourist for an iPhone instead of a fine for an alleged traffic offence,” the police said.

“The ZRP has taken note of the video and has commenced investigations to establish the authenticity and circumstances surrounding the incident.”

Police said the investigation would also seek to identify the officer shown in the footage and establish when and where the alleged incident occurred.

“The investigations are also aimed at identifying the police officer involved and establishing the date, time and location of the alleged incident,” the statement said.

The ZRP has not confirmed whether the officer is a serving member of the force or whether disciplinary action has been taken.

Video raises corruption concerns

If verified, the alleged exchange could raise concerns about police conduct, corruption and the handling of traffic offences in Zimbabwe. The video has attracted attention because the alleged request for an electronic device appears to replace the formal payment of a traffic fine. However, the authenticity of the footage and the identity of the officer remain subject to investigation.

The ZRP has previously urged members of the public to report suspected corruption and misconduct involving police officers through official channels. The latest investigation comes as Zimbabwe continues efforts to improve the country's image among international visitors and strengthen confidence in law enforcement. For tourists travelling through Zimbabwe, police roadblocks and traffic enforcement are a routine part of road travel. Any confirmed misconduct involving visitors could therefore have implications beyond the individual incident.

Police have urged the public to allow the investigation to establish the facts surrounding the viral video. Until the investigation is concluded, the allegations against the officer remain unproven.