Online Reporter
Andrew Muvishi
Mash East Correspondent
POLICE in Mashonaland East Province have impounded more than 200 vehicles in an operation aimed at restoring sanity and order in Marondera’s central business district (CBD).
The operation targeted unregistered vehicles, pirate taxis and motorists violating traffic regulations as authorities intensify efforts to decongest the town and enforce road safety laws.
Officer Commanding Police in Mashonaland East Province, Commissioner Dr Wiklef Makamache, confirmed that 208 vehicles had been impounded.
“As police in Mashonaland East Province, we have impounded 208 vehicles in a sweeping operation aimed at restoring order and sanity in the CBD,” said Commissioner Dr Makamache.
“This is an ongoing operation involving key stakeholders, including the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA), the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), the Vehicle Theft Squad and the local authority.”
He said the initiative was part of a coordinated multi-agency effort to enforce traffic regulations and improve order within the town.
“This was a multi-stakeholder effort to bring back sanity in the CBD. Motorists must adhere to the law, and those who choose to disregard it will face the consequences,” he said.
A snap survey conducted by The Herald in Marondera CBD showed that many residents welcomed the operation, saying illegal transport operators had been causing congestion and disrupting business activities.
“This operation was long overdue. The CBD had become chaotic and genuine businesses were suffering,” said one pedestrian who declined to be named.
The impounded vehicles are being held at Marondera Police Station, where officials from ZINARA are verifying vehicle licences, VID inspectors are checking roadworthiness, and the Vehicle Theft Squad is confirming vehicle ownership to guard against stolen cars.
Local authorities are also assessing compliance with municipal by-laws. Vehicle owners will be required to pay fines and provide valid documentation before reclaiming their vehicles.
Police have warned that similar operations will continue until order is fully restored.
The crackdown comes amid a nationwide campaign to regulate urban transport systems and curb lawlessness on the country’s roads.
