143 Touts Arrested In Harare Transport Crackdown
Harare police have arrested 143 touts in a sweeping operation to curb harassment of passengers and restore order to the city’s chaotic transport system.
The arrests, carried out since Monday, follow mounting complaints from travellers about aggressive touts targeting pedestrians and passengers at bus ranks and on city streets.
Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the figures, saying the blitz netted 25 touts on Monday, 30 on Tuesday, 45 on Wednesday and 33 on Thursday.
“This operation is ongoing, and we continue to warn touts against harassing the public,” said Insp Chakanza. “All arrested suspects have appeared in court.”
Many of those picked up are expected to spend the long weekend in custody as they await bail hearings.
Police have also intensified checks on kombis operating without licences and those picking up passengers at undesignated points. The crackdown is part of a broader law enforcement push targeting lawlessness in the CBD.
Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, Officer Commanding Harare Province, will today meet kombi drivers and operators to discuss the fate of impounded vehicles parked at the Chikurubi Police Support Unit yard. The meeting will also address compliance issues in the sector.
Commissioner Chikunguru is further expected to lead a traffic safety campaign at Mbare Musika in collaboration with the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, City of Harare, Vehicle Inspection Department and transport associations.
The multi-stakeholder effort is aimed at improving passenger safety and restoring public confidence in Harare’s transport system.
