12 hours Ago By Mimmy
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has escalated its efforts to combat illegal taxi operators and other road offenders in Harare through a massive ongoing operation aimed at restoring order and safety to the city’s chaotic roads. Known as ‘mushikashika’ in local parlance, these illegal taxis have become notorious for their involvement in numerous hit-and-run accidents, kidnappings, and other criminal activities, prompting the authorities to take a firm stance against them. In a statement confirming the ongoing clampdown, ZRP national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, revealed that the operation, codenamed “No to Mushikashika,” has made significant strides since its launch.
Nyathi confirmed that the police have made over 7,000 arrests as part of the operation, with a staggering 572 arrests taking place in just one day. “On January 21, 2025, 572 arrests were made under operation ‘No to Mushikashika,’ bringing the cumulative number of arrests to 7,695,” he said, highlighting the scale and seriousness of the operation. The main focus of the operation is on illegal taxi operators, who often use unregistered vehicles or vehicles without number plates.
These rogue operators have been linked to a surge in road accidents, including hit-and-run incidents, as well as a growing number of crimes such as armed robberies, kidnappings, and even sexual assaults. In many instances, the perpetrators of these crimes rely on untraceable, plateless vehicles to carry out their illegal activities, making it difficult for law enforcement to track them down. Nyathi further revealed that the operation is not limited to targeting illegal taxis alone.
It also addresses the issue of touts, who often assist in recruiting passengers for these unlawful vehicles. So far, the police have arrested 197 touts and impounded 67 vehicles that either lack proper registration or do not have number plates displayed. “The operation also targets touts, unregistered vehicles, and those that do not have registration number plates displayed,” Nyathi added.
The crackdown comes in response to growing public outcry over the dangers posed by illegal public transporters. Commuters have voiced their concerns over the reckless behavior of ‘mushikashika’ drivers, who often drive without regard for road safety, putting the lives of passengers and pedestrians at risk. In addition to this, cases of crime related to these illegal operators have been on the rise, with many of the perpetrators using these unregistered vehicles to evade capture.
The public has long complained about the prevalence of these illegal taxis, which have become a significant problem in Harare and other urban areas. Many commuters have expressed frustration over the lack of alternative safe transport options, as illegal taxis often fill the void left by the inadequate formal public transport system. However, the ZRP has repeatedly urged the public to prioritize safety and use buses or registered taxis, which are subject to more stringent regulations and offer a safer mode of transport.
Despite the challenges, the police’s intensified efforts in cracking down on these illegal operators appear to be making progress, with the authorities vowing to continue their efforts until normalcy is restored on the capital’s roads. The ZRP has also reiterated its commitment to ensuring that law and order prevail, particularly on roads where criminal activities have become a growing concern. The operation is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, with the ZRP urging the public to cooperate and report any illegal activities they observe.
The authorities have also appealed for continued support in addressing the issue of ‘mushikashika’ and other road-related crimes, emphasizing that public safety must remain a top priority. As the operation continues, it is hoped that the increased police presence and ongoing arrests will deter illegal transporters and contribute to safer roads for all. In an intense and controversial Twitter exchange, Zimbabwean public figures Mudiwa Hood and Susan Mutemi found themselves embroiled in a fiery dispute that has quickly gained widespread attention.
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