Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
FOUR touts were arrested and fined on Tuesday for parading the coffin with the body of their colleague, who was a driver, on top of a kombi from Chitungwiza to Highfield.
The touts Godwin Mazenge, Michael Zhuwawo, 30, both of Highfield, Anna Chere, 27, and Tawanda Mafaranyika, 27, both from Chitungwiza, were arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.
At 4:30 pm, relatives, friends and associates of Paswell Tichare, including the four, proceeded to collect the body for burial at Granville Cemetery (commonly referred to as KuMbudzi)
The mourners, which included touts, placed the coffin on top of a Toyota Hiace and formed a convoy from Zengeza 4 to Machipisa bus terminus.
Upon reaching Machipisa, the group blocked Main Street, disrupting the free flow of traffic, sang songs honouring their late colleague’s touting activities and engaged in reckless conduct, including skidding their cars.
Police acted swiftly to restore order and ensure the safety of other road users by taking the body to Machipisa Police Station and subsequently ensuring that it was transported in a hearse.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the case, saying the four have since paid admission of guilt deposit fines.
“Reference is made to social media reports alleging that some family members carried a coffin to Machipisa Police Station, Highfield, Harare, blaming the police for the death of their relative following an alleged road traffic incident involving a police officer,” he said.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police wishes to set the record straight that the alleged victim, Paswell Tichare (29) of Hopley, Harare, passed away on April 5, 2026, at Unit H Shopping Centre, Chitungwiza, after a long illness. He did not die as a result of any police action or road traffic incident involving a police officer.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges members of the public to desist from spreading unverified information on social media, as this may cause unnecessary alarm and confusion.
“On the other hand, touts and relatives who parade coffins while disrupting the smooth flow of traffic will face the full wrath of the law.”
