STOP BRIBING COPS, BUS OPERATOR TOLD…Rare frank exchange between police and bus operators

Arron Nyamayaro

POLICE yesterday exposed and warned a local bus operator over the conduct of his drivers and conductors who are allegedly bribing traffic cops.

A Rimbi Travellers’ representative was warned by the Officer Responsible for Operations in Harare province, Assistant Commissioner Tawonei Nyazema, during a Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation (ZPTO) meeting at a local hotel.

The meeting brought together the police, ZPTO, Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe and Harare City Council.

It discussed ways to try and reduce road traffic accidents ahead of the festive season.

During a question-and-answer session, one bus operator, Afra Chinhamu, quizzed police commanders about their failure to solve Harare’s traffic jungle.

Ass Comm Nyazema said police would not hesitate to arrest motorists who violate road rules and regulations.

“Do not bribe our police officers so that you continue operating unroadworthy buses,” said Ass Comm Nyazema.

“Kunyanyanyanya imi VaRimbi takanzwa kuti makatanga murikumakombi iyezvino mave kumabhazi.

“Tambotaurirana pano kuti nhasi tinoda chokwadi uye ndanzwa kuti munonamata kwaMwazha saka mabasa enyu akanaka ngaakuteverei.

“Musapa mapurisa edu mari, kunyanya kuna Fourth Street (Simon Vengai Muzenda Street).

“We want to leave our offices to our juniors, but if you fool them through bribes, our country will be corrupted.

“So, let us stop corruption.”

Rimbi promised to investigate and sanction his drivers and conductors for such misconduct.