The Officer Commanding Police in Masvingo Province has issued a stringent memorandum addressing cellphone use among police officers on duty. Documented as memorandum 2065/24 and dated October 28, 2024, this directive responds to ongoing concerns over officers’ use of cellphones during working hours.
Despite previous efforts to ban cellphone use on duty, senior officers have not consistently enforced these rules. The new directive makes it clear that, effective immediately, police officers are prohibited from carrying cellphones while on duty, except during specified break and lunch periods.
The memorandum states that if an officer is found with a cellphone during work hours, their Officer in Charge will face accountability measures. To comply with this directive, Officers in Charge must collect and secure their subordinates’ cellphones at the start of each shift, storing them in a safe or cabinet.
Additionally, the directive requires all police stations to update their standard operating procedures (SOPs) to include these rules on cellphone use. Officers must confirm that they have read and understood the updated procedures.
This policy underlines the Masvingo Province police command’s dedication to upholding professionalism and ensuring that officers remain attentive to their responsibilities. The goal is to create a work environment where personal device use does not disrupt duties.
