HARARE – Taking pictures at accident scenes and sharing them on social media is a violation of victims’ dignity and privacy, and those doing so risk arrest and prosecution, police have warned.
In a statement, police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi said many families of accident victims have seen gruesome videos of their loved ones – injured or dying – shared online.
“The ZRP strongly condemns the distressing behaviour of individuals who choose to film citizens during tragic incidents, such as accidents or drownings, rather than offering assistance or calling emergency services,” Nyathi said.
“In light of recent incidents, the ZRP supports pressing criminal charges against those who engage in this intrusive and harmful behaviour. Filming or sharing footage of individuals in life threatening situations without their consent or the consent of their families is unacceptable and warrants legal repercussions.”
The police spokesman did not specify the law that would be used to charge offenders.
Access to smartphones and internet connectivity has given many Zimbabweans unlimited audiences for their content worldwide. Accident scene photos and videos are regularly shared.
Nyathi said police wanted the public to “prioritise compassion and responsibility during emergencies.”
“We encourage Zimbabweans to stand together against this troubling trend and to act with humanity and decency in all situations,” Nyathi added.
