Tendai Muererwa
Mutare-The chaotic landscape that was characteristic of Mutare’s public transport system has been replaced by a new era of discipline following a sweeping enforcement operation.
Authorities, in collaboration with transport operators, have successfully dismantled illegal structures to restore “sanity and professionalism” on the city’s streets.
The intervention targeted the systemic lawlessness that had previously gripped commuter ranks, specifically rooting out “rogue elements” and touts whose presence had fostered an environment of disorder.
Manicaland province acting police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, said the operation is meant to restore order and protect members of the public.
“The police are here to raise awareness on the need to maintain law and order in public spaces, especially at bus termini. Touts have been harassing the travelling public and vendors, in some cases demanding facilitation and protection fees. We are determined to put an end to such lawlessness,” he said.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka urged members of the public to report any errant behaviour to the nearest police station.
Commuters have welcomed the development, describing the previous situation as unbearable.
“Travelling had become a nightmare. Touts would harass us, sometimes forcing us into vehicles, and in the process some of our belongings would get lost or damaged. We appreciate the police for addressing the situation,” said Mr Bernard Rusike, who commutes between the city centre and Dangamvura.
Another commuter, Mr Earnmore Dongo, who travels between town and Sakubva, also expressed relief.
“We are happy that order is being restored. Now people can report harassment without fear, and the ranks are becoming safer for everyone,” he said.
Authorities have indicated that the crackdown is not a once-off exercise, but part of ongoing efforts to ensure lasting order in Mutare’s public transport system.
In a decisive move to streamline operations, the city has consolidated its transport network. Mushrooming illegal pick-up points have been abolished, with operations now restricted to three officially designated ranks Mudzviti Bus Terminus: The central hub for all operations. Dangamvura Rank: Authorized for suburb-specific transit and Chikanga Rank: Authorized for suburb-specific transit.
Crucially, these ranks are now managed by registered transport associations, ensuring a level of accountability that was previously non-existent. Beyond the terminuses, law enforcement has tightened its grip on the city’s road networks. A massive “blitz” is currently underway, targeting both private motorists and public transporters.
The “Mushika-Shika” Crackdown Eradicating illegal pirate taxi operations. Penalizing red-light jumping, speeding and overloading. Identifying vehicles operating without valid route permits.
Dozens of vehicles have already been impounded and towed to the Mutare Main Police Camp as authorities have signaled that this is not a one-off event. With a heavy police presence maintained at all key intersections and bus ranks, the message to operators is clear: the era of lawlessness is over.
Residents can expect continued patrols and monitoring to ensure that the newly established order becomes a permanent fixture of Mutare’s urban landscape.
