Zambian Business Times
For over four years, the call to reactivate the 991 toll-free number for police and emergency services has gone unanswered, sparking concerns about the government’s commitment to effective law enforcement and public safety. The existence of a functional emergency number is considered a fundamental requirement for any administration aiming to provide reliable emergency services and maintain a record of law enforcement activities.
Functional countries typically have operational emergency numbers as a basic infrastructure. A 24/7 recorded toll-free line would allow citizens to report emergencies and request police assistance, while also providing data on response times and effectiveness. The absence of this number raises concerns about potential failures in responding to emergencies and suggests a need for improved systems to address public safety issues.
The reluctance to reintroduce the 991 number may stem from fears of exposing deficiencies in emergency response capabilities. However, starting with a functional system and working to improve it over time is crucial for any effective emergency service framework. Adequate funding and infrastructure are necessary to ensure that police can respond to calls around the clock, particularly during critical times such as night hours when crimes are more prevalent.
The issue of police response times also impacts the ability to address incidents involving political party carders, who have been reported to harass citizens in various settings. The lack of a reliable emergency number exacerbates these problems, as timely police intervention is often hindered by the absence of an effective communication system.
Recent appeals by the police for public assistance, including rewards for information, have been undermined by untrained personnel answering calls and potentially failing to record sensitive information accurately. This situation mirrors past challenges, such as the case of Pamela Chisumpa and the abduction of 12 girls, where ineffective communication and lack of verifiable information created difficulties in resolving the cases.
The government’s inaction on this matter raises questions about its seriousness in combating crime and investing in modern policing infrastructure. Mobile network providers have expressed willingness to offer toll-free services as part of their corporate social responsibility, provided the government establishes a dedicated national call center.
The need for a national police call center and operational toll-free numbers is a basic requirement that could significantly enhance emergency response and law enforcement efficiency. The government is urged to prioritize this issue, ensuring that essential services are accessible and effective in safeguarding the public.
