By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, Zimbabwe — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Manicaland Province has issued a stern warning to transport touts and illegal “mishikashika” drivers, vowing a crackdown on lawlessness at bus termini and on the roads during the 2025 festive season.
The warning was delivered yesterday during the launch of the ZRP Manicaland Festive Season Campaign, which began with a police march from Mutare Central Police Station through the city centre, passing through the commuter omnibus rank, before ending at Sakubva Bus Terminus.
Addressing commuters, drivers and transport operators at Sakubva, Assistant Commissioner Nicolas Henry Myambo, speaking on behalf of Officer Commanding Police Manicaland Province Commissioner C. Nhete, said the police would not tolerate touting, reckless driving and other traffic-related offences that typically spike during the festive period.
“No one is allowed to loiter at bus termini for touting purposes. All known touts are now under police surveillance,” the police warned, adding that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted without exception.
The police also cautioned “mishikashika” drivers — illegal transport operators often blamed for reckless driving, speeding and disregard for traffic laws — to either regularise their operations or face arrest. Commissioner Nhete said police officers would be deployed at strategic points across the province to enforce traffic regulations and restore order in public transport spaces.
Bus conductors were urged to wear uniforms and identification badges to allow for easy identification, while commuters were advised to use registered and authorised transport services.
Motorists were warned against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding and using mobile phones while driving. The police also appealed to the public to avoid resisting armed robbers, report suspicious movements in their neighbourhoods and desist from violent domestic disputes.
Beyond transport-related offences, the police highlighted a broader festive season security strategy targeting road traffic accidents, robbery, unlawful entry into premises, domestic violence, child sexual abuse and fraud cases commonly referred to as chadhonha.
The ZRP further cautioned residents against conmen who prey on festive crowds by offering fake jobs, scholarships or business deals, urging the public to “treat every stranger as a potential thief” and report suspected scams.
After the address, Assistant Commissioner Myambo and other police officers boarded commuter omnibuses at Sakubva Bus Terminus, where they engaged drivers and passengers directly, warning them against speeding and unsafe driving practices.
The police called on communities in Manicaland to cooperate with law enforcement in maintaining peace and order, saying a disciplined public was key to a safe and enjoyable festive season.
Emergency cases can be reported to ZRP Manicaland Provincial Headquarters on 02020-63813 or Mutare Central District Headquarters on 02020-64287.
