The touts were arrested as part of an joint operation involving municipal officials and the police aimed at restoring order at city ranks. Magistrate Ms Gamuchirai Siwardi said the touts would go to prison for two months if they failed to pay the fines.
The other group of 21 touts appeared before the same magistrate and were remanded in custody to today for sentencing.
In passing the sentence, Ms Siwardi said the touts were causing confusion at bus ranks.
“Touting is now a major concern because they cause confusion and thefts occur as a result, she said. Day in and day out, the courts are crowded with touting cases.
“The court appreciates the economic hardships in the country, but it is not a passport for people to commit crimes.
Prosecutor Ms Barbra Ndoro said the touts committed a prevalent offence, which called for a stiffer penalty. Allegations against the touts arose when police officers who were patrolling different ranks saw them touting for passengers.



