Safety Concerns Arise Over Public Filming Amid Police Crackdowns: Zenzele Ndebele

Zenzele Ndebele, Director of the Centre for Innovation and Technology (CITE), has urged citizens to prioritize their safety while filming in public spaces during sensitive operations.

His remarks come after arrests were made in Bulawayo, where individuals recorded police officers conducting crackdowns on unlicensed commuter omnibuses and mushikashika.

Speaking on the CITE X-Spaces current affairs program This Morning on Asakhe, Ndebele emphasized the importance of caution when capturing public events.

He noted that practicing as a journalist in Zimbabwe typically requires accreditation. While citizens without such credentials can document events, they may face challenges accessing official information.

According to the Zimbabwe Media Commission guidelines, any Zimbabwean with a cellphone can register as a journalist, opening avenues for citizen journalism.

However, legal boundaries, including the Official Secrecy Act, regulate certain actions. Many individuals remain unaware of these restrictions, exposing themselves to legal risks.

Ndebele highlighted the significance of avoiding interference with emergency responders, such as police officers or firefighters. This not only ensures their efficiency but also reduces risks for bystanders.

Filming wrongdoing, like police misconduct, can be impactful, especially when addressing abuses of power. Such footage serves as vital evidence in exposing overreach.

Despite this, Ndebele warned of legal consequences. Recording law enforcement activities could lead to criminal nuisance charges, placing financial and emotional strain on families.

Legal repercussions often include costly legal fees, as families of those arrested may need to hire lawyers. The risks, he suggested, should be weighed carefully.

Zimbabwe’s legal framework does not always guarantee accountability for officers who misuse power. Cases involving police shootings frequently remain unresolved.

Ndebele emphasized the importance of giving law enforcement the necessary space to perform their duties during pursuits or emergency situations.

Citizens should remain vigilant, balancing their desire for transparency with the need to act responsibly in potentially volatile situations.

Public interest in holding authorities accountable has grown, with mobile devices increasingly empowering citizens to document incidents.

However, the lack of systemic accountability in Zimbabwe’s institutions adds complexity to this dynamic, further complicating interactions between citizens and authorities.

This issue raises broader concerns about the intersection of technology, civil liberties, and the right to document public events.