Source International encyclopedia of uniform Insignia The Zambia Police Service is almost solely a reactive force and demonstrates rather poor proactive law enforcement techniques and initiative to deter or investigate crime.

Police often lack equipment, resources, training, and personnel to respond to calls for assistance or other emergencies.

Inadequate legislation and investigation results in the lack of prosecution or large numbers of acquittals.

Low pay and morale create an environment in which bribes of even a few dollars can make allegations or charges disappear.

[4] The legislative and constitutional provisions that provide for the Zambia Police Service meet the most basic requirements of the rule of law, which is defined by Carothers as a system in which the laws are public knowledge, are clear, apply to everyone equally, and uphold political and civil liberties.