In a separate incident, a 27-year-old herdboy from Rusape reportedly lost a substantial sum of money after boarding a mushikashika (illegal taxi) in Southley Park, Harare, on Sunday. Josphate Gadzikwa, of Goto Village under Chief Makoni in Rusape, was carrying US$4000 belonging to his employer, Esther Chaparanga, when the incident occurred.
According to reports, Josphate boarded a white Honda Fit mushikashika, which already had four other occupants, intending to travel to the Harare CBD and then proceed to Rusape. The driver reportedly suggested that he needed to collect one of the passenger’s luggage, and they all agreed to the detour.
However, instead of collecting luggage, the driver reportedly took the Masvingo Road direction and parked by the roadside near the Skyline tollgate. The driver then reportedly disembarked and approached Josphate, who was seated in the vehicle.
The driver allegedly drew a knife and ordered Josphate to surrender everything in his possession. The other occupants of the vehicle, who had been pretending to be passengers, also reportedly joined in the assault, taking turns to beat him.
The accused persons reportedly stole cash amounting to US$4000 and a Samsung cellphone with Econet simcard number 0781041714. They then drove away towards Masvingo Road, leaving Josphate lying on the ground.
Inspector Chakanza confirmed the case, stating, “Police are investigating a robbery case involving a mushikashika vehicle in Southley Park.” The police are currently investigating the incident and seeking to apprehend the suspects.
The proliferation of mushikashikas in Zimbabwe is a reflection of the country’s economic challenges and the inadequacy of the formal transport system. Many people turn to mushikashikas out of necessity, as they cannot afford the fares charged by registered taxis or buses.
The government has been trying to regulate the mushikashika industry, but with limited success. Efforts to register and license these vehicles have been met with resistance from operators, who fear that it will increase their costs and reduce their profits.
In the meantime, passengers are advised to exercise caution when using mushikashikas. They should avoid boarding vehicles with suspicious-looking individuals, and they should never carry large sums of money or valuable items when using these services.
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