The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned motorists that it is an offence to drive vehicles without registration plates on the country’s roads, saying it will take action against offenders without fear or favour.
In a statement issued on 27 July 2026, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police had noted with concern an increase in plateless vehicles and vehicles whose number plates are hidden by bull bars and bumpers.
Commissioner Nyathi reminded Zimbabweans that under the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act (Chapter 13:14) and the Road Traffic Act (Chapter 13:11), all vehicles moving on public roads must be fitted with registration plates to assist in the maintenance of law and order.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reminds Zimbabweans that it is an offence for any motorist to drive a vehicle which does not display registration plates (number plates) on the country’s roads,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
He said police had also observed a growing trend of vehicles whose registration plates are blocked or hidden by fitted bull bars and bumpers, making it difficult to identify them.
“This makes the identification of these vehicles difficult in case of criminal acts and road traffic accidents,” he said.
Commissioner Nyathi said the ZRP will take action against such vehicles and ensure that the country’s laws take effect without fear or favour.
He implored vehicle owners and drivers to be law-abiding citizens and assist the police in promoting road safety and curbing crime in the country.