Zimbabwe Police to Use Breathalysers at Roadblocks to Combat Drunk Driving

Zimbabwean authorities are ramping up their efforts to combat drunk driving by deploying breathalysers at police roadblocks.

Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, confirmed that the devices are being procured and will be in use by the upcoming Easter holiday.

The new measure is designed to target reckless drivers, particularly during busy holiday periods when incidents of drunk driving are more prevalent.

Drunk driving and speeding are significant contributors to road accidents and fatalities in Zimbabwe, but enforcing laws to prevent them has been challenging.

Previously, although police suspected some drivers of being intoxicated, they lacked the means to confirm it. With the introduction of breathalysers, officers will be able to conduct routine alcohol tests, ensuring that only sober drivers are on the roads.

The police will focus their efforts on major highways, where speeding-related fatal accidents are more common. Reports suggest that even bus drivers have been suspected of driving under the influence.

Unlike speed traps, where drivers may slow down before reaching a checkpoint, alcohol stays in the bloodstream, making detection unavoidable.

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While there may be concerns over the accuracy of breathalysers, the devices are generally reliable, and in cases of doubt, blood tests will be conducted.

Zimbabwe’s laws already mandate a one-year suspension of a driver’s licence for first-time offenders who exceed the legal alcohol limit of 70mg per 100 ml of blood.

With ongoing road upgrades potentially encouraging faster driving, authorities emphasize the importance of strict enforcement.

Additionally, the government is considering periodic testing to keep drivers mindful of road safety regulations.

As Easter approaches, drivers are advised to reconsider getting behind the wheel while intoxicated, as being caught could lead to a one-year licence suspension.

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