This chapter critically examines Chinese-funded surveillance and CCTV systems in Zimbabwe’s urban areas, emphasising their dual role in enhancing public safety and threatening national sovereignty. While aiding crime prevention, these systems raise concerns about human rights violations, corruption and foreign influence. Using Panopticism theory and interviews with law enforcement agents, civil society, politicians and community members, the chapter exposes misuse of surveillance tools, including bribery and political targeting. Chinese involvement raises fears over access to sensitive data and manipulation of domestic policy. Drawing from findings in South Africa and beyond, the chapter emphasises the need for reform. It calls for transparent procurement, strong human rights protection and regulatory frameworks to curb dependence on foreign technology. African nations are urged to balance technological benefits with ethical governance and the protection of sovereignty.