Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
A POLICE operation targeting unroadworthy and non‑compliant kombis has left thousands of Mutare residents stranded, forcing them to pay up to US$2 for journeys that normally cost US$0.50, as the number of operating vehicles plummeted on Tuesday night.
The crackdown, which began on Monday, focused on vehicles that failed safety inspections and operators who had not met licencing and insurance requirements.
As a result, many kombis were impounded or ordered off the road, creating a sudden shortage of public transport across the city’s main routes to Dangamvura, Hobhouse and Chikanga.
Commuters from the central business district (CBD) reported fares rising sharply – trips to Sakubva now cost between US$1 and US$1.50, while some passengers, unable to afford the hike, chose to walk home.
Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Chinyoka confirmed the ongoing operation, stating that it is intended to promote road safety and compliance.
“We are conducting an ongoing operation to bring lawlessness on the roads to a complete standstill. We are targeting unroadworthy vehicles, drivers who are not following road rules, and those operating without proper documentation,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
He added that the police are also addressing cases of drink-driving.
“We are using breathalysers to detect intoxicated drivers. Our priority is to ensure the safety of all road users,” he said, adding that the operation follows an increase in hit-and-run incidents, particularly in Chikanga and around the Green Market area.
“We have a list of vehicles suspected to have been involved in these incidents, and we are actively tracking them down,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka, adding that operators taking advantage of the situation and overcharging commuters will also be brought to book.
Police have set up several roadblocks across the city as the operation continues.
