Harare’s streets are experiencing a significant shift as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) intensifies its crackdown on illegal transport operators and traffic violators.
Dubbed “Operation No to Mushikashika,” the ongoing blitz targets the notorious pirate taxis, commonly known as ‘mushikashika’, which have been blamed for a surge in hit-and-run accidents, kidnappings, and other crimes.
The operation, which has already resulted in nearly 8,000 arrests, is showing significant results in restoring order to the city’s roads.
ZRP national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the impressive figures, stating: “On January 21, 2025, 572 arrests were made under Operation ‘No to Mushikashika,’ bringing cumulative arrests to 7,695.”
This figure includes not only mushikashika drivers but also touts, and those operating unregistered or plateless vehicles. Commissioner Nyathi added, “So far, 197 touts have been arrested while 67 unregistered and plateless vehicles have been impounded.”
“We realise that police presence has made things better because motorists will do the right things on the road,” one commuter commented.
Another added, “The police should also make sure they do something about commuter omnibuses that are using undesignated points.”
Last week, social media was flooded with videos depicting confrontations between errant drivers and police officers, further highlighting the need for decisive action. In response, the ZRP held a crucial meeting with transport operators in Harare to address the concerns and outline the operation’s goals.
Officer Commanding ZRP Harare Province, Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, assured compliant transport operators of their protection, stating: “Those with all required documentation and who follow the rules will operate without interruptions. However, non-compliance will attract serious consequences, including vehicle impoundment.”
He stressed the importance of collaboration between the police and the transport sector, urging operators to report any issues or suggestions.
Chief of Staff Operations, Commissioner Dr. Bazibi Dube, reinforced the ZRP’s commitment to the operation’s long-term success, dismissing speculation that the crackdown would soon end.
“The operation will continue until there is complete sanity on our roads,” he declared. “Anyone thinking they can wait out the crackdown is mistaken. We are committed to long-term order and safety.”
A transport operator at the meeting expressed support for stricter enforcement, stating: “We urge the ZRP to enforce proper policing to ensure order on our roads. This meeting is essential for sharing ideas on restoring sanity.”
However, another operator raised concerns about inconsistencies in enforcement, noting, “Police officers sometimes target compliant vehicles while overlooking unregistered ones. We need fairness and a level playing field to operate freely.”
- An operator’s licence
- Registration plates
- A third plate
- A ZINARA licence
- Vehicle insurance
- Passenger insurance
- A certificate of fitness
- A City of Harare permit
- An RMT route authority
- A City of Harare Rank Disc
- A Tax Clearance Certificate
The ZRP’s commitment to sustained enforcement is evident, with many non-compliant kombis resorting to less-trafficked routes to evade checkpoints, while compliant vehicles continue their operations relatively undisturbed.