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Freeman Razemba, Crime Reporter
A KOMBI driver, Nikisi Kudzanai Peter (29), has been arrested after a video surfaced online showcasing his reckless driving along a pavement in the Harare city centre.
The footage, which quickly went viral, showed Peter driving his Toyota Hiace kombi along the crowded sidewalks, much to the alarm of pedestrians.
Police, acting on a tip-off, set up a roadblock along Seke Road on January 18.
As Peter approached the checkpoint near ABC Auctions, he tried to escape, reversing his vehicle in a frantic bid to evade capture.
However, his escape route was blocked by oncoming traffic, so he abandoned his kombi and fled on foot.
The vehicle was subsequently impounded and the word went out that the police were anxious to interview the driver.
After days of evasion, Peter was finally arrested on Wednesday, following a tip-off regarding his whereabouts.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said Peter was the driver of the kombi with registration number AGL 1316, identified in the viral video driving dangerously along Julius Nyerere Way, opposite OK Zimbabwe supermarket.
Police are conducting a crack down on unregistered kombis and mushikashika (pirate taxis), including a network of touts that harass passengers.
Operation No to Mushikashika has seen another 538 arrests nationwide over the last few days, bringing the total to 8 233, and the new batch includes 204 touts.
Another 67 unregistered or plateless vehicles have been impounded.
Commissioner Nyathi warned motorists, emphasising the importance of adhering to road rules to protect the lives of the public.
He encouraged everyone to report any instances of reckless driving.
“The public should feel free to report instances of reckless driving or non-compliance with road rules and regulations on the National Complaints Desk number (024) 2703631 or via WhatsApp on 0712 800 197,” he said.
Peter is now expected to appear in court facing charges of reckless driving.
Online Reporter