Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
A HARARE kombi driver has been slapped with a 30-month jail term after his reckless driving antics at a Borrowdale Road traffic intersection were captured and reported by an alert motorist.
Harmony Duri, 25, appeared before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai and was convicted after a full trial.
He was facing reckless driving charges.
Duri ignored a red traffic light while transporting passengers.
The court heard that on February 20, at around 9:30am, Duri was driving a Toyota Hiace along Borrowdale Road, heading south, when he approached the traffic lights near Borrowdale Village and Pomona Shops.
Instead of stopping, he drove straight through the red light, putting other road users at risk.
His actions did not go unnoticed.
A witness, Luisa Patricia Townsend, who was behind him, captured the incident and made a police report, leading to his arrest.
The State, represented by Charlotte Chikoore, proved that Duri failed to obey a lawfully erected traffic sign and drove without observing road rules and regulations.
The court ruled that his conduct was unlawful and posed a danger to the public.
He was subsequently sentenced to 30 months in prison.
Six months were suspended on condition that he doesn’t commit a similar offence in the next three years.
Twenty four months are effective.
There has been an increase in the number of kombi drivers who have been sent to jail in recent months for violating road traffic rules.
Mathew Masinge