Police target 13 550 unregistered kombis

Freeman Razemba-Crime Reporter

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is going after more than 13 500 unregistered kombis and pirate taxis as part of an operation aimed at restoring order in Harare.

Reports indicate that there are approximately 16 500 commuter omnibuses operating in the city, with only 2 950 of them registered.

This information was disclosed at a meeting between police and transport operators, where the focus was on strategies to reduce road carnage and lawlessness.

The meeting, chaired by Commissioner Bazibi Dube, who is the chief staff officer operations at Police General Headquarters, included key figures such as the Officer Commanding Harare Province, Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, and senior police officers.

Transport operators from various bus companies, Zimbabwe Public Transport Organisation (ZPTO) chairman Dr Sam Nhanhanga, his deputy Dr Leonard Mukumba, and Greater Harare Association of Commuter Operators (GHACO) chairman, Mr Ngoni Katsvairo, also attended the meeting.

The ongoing safety operation targets drivers causing congestion, picking passengers at unauthorised points, creating imaginary lanes, and driving against traffic.

Unregistered public service vehicles, including kombis and mushikashika operating without permits or vehicle fitness certificates, are also under scrutiny.

For kombis to operate on the roads, they require an operator’s licence, registration plates, third plate, ZINARA licence, vehicle insurance, and passenger insurance.

They must also have a certificate of fitness, a City of Harare permit, RMT route authority, City of Harare Rank Disc and Tax Clearance Certificate.

Many non-compliant kombis are reportedly diverting to less-used side roads to evade police checks, while compliant vehicles follow designated routes and pass through checkpoints with minimal delays.

“We have noted that we have 16 500 kombis but only 2 950 meet the requirements. We embarked on this operation upon identifying a significant problem. It is a multi-phase initiative aimed at enforcing traffic laws. While we have made progress, there is still much work to be done. This operation is not limited to a specific timeframe; it will persist as long as violations occur,” said Comm Dube.

“And so far, I can safely say a milestone has been achieved, though not happily expected. Sadly, I heard from social media that some were saying, the operation will run up to the 25th of January. May I inform the nation that this operation is there to stay. It is there to stay for as long as we have these violations that are taking place on the ground”.

He expressed concern over reports of corrupt activities involving kombi crews and police officers, warning that the law would be enforced against anyone involved in such practices.

On his part, Comm Chikunguru reiterated the importance of the meeting, saying it provided an opportunity to update operators on police plans and collaborate to tackle existing challenges.

“Firstly, I would like to draw your attention to our ongoing operation against mushikashika. We are resolute in our determination to restore orderliness and sanity in the manner in which passengers are picked up and dropped off. Let me be clear: we will take a no-mercy stance against those who continue to disregard designated bus termini. I urge you all to comply with the regulations and use the designated bus termini to ensure your safety,” he said.

Comm Chikunguru said they had intensified their traffic enforcement efforts in the city, with the primary focus to remove unroadworthy vehicles from the roads.

“This means that all vehicles, including passenger transport vehicles, that are unfit for road use risk being impounded.

“We urge you to ensure that your vehicles meet the required safety standards to avoid any disruptions to your operations.

“Thirdly, I am compelled to comment on the conduct of some of our drivers and conductors. It’s alarming to note that some drivers engage in reckless behaviour, posing a significant threat to the safety of passengers and other road users. This behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“We urge you to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that your drivers and conductors adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and safety,” Comm Chikunguru said.

He said the Police Service also has a zero tolerance to corruption and that the law will not spare anyone involved in such acts.

Comm Nyathi underscored the need for operators to obey traffic regulations and ensure their vehicles are properly registered.

Representing transporters, Dr Nhanhanga said the meeting sought to find solutions to reduce road accidents and enhance safety.

He called for measures to curb rampant corruption on the roads, highlighting ongoing engagements with the Ministry of Transport to deploy law enforcement officers at bus terminuses for inspections.

GHACO chairman Mr Katsvairo noted their association’s discussions with Harare City Council regarding illegal pick-up points used by pirate taxis, which contribute to corruption.