By Takudzwa Madondo
MUTARE-The ongoing police crackdown on illegal “mushikashika” taxis in Mutare is increasingly disrupting daily commuting, leaving passengers stranded forcing many to complete their journeys on foot.
Commuters from suburbs such as Dangamvura, Hobhouse, and Sakubva have reported being dropped off at flyover bridge and checkpoints on the outskirts of the Central Business District (CBD), as drivers attempt to evade police roadblocks mounted along major routes into town.
Despite paying fares of up to US$1 for a full trip into the CBD, many passengers say they are now being forced to walk long distances to reach their workplaces.
“We understand the need for police to deal with crime, but this is now affecting us as ordinary people,” said one commuter.
“You pay your fare expecting to get to town, but you are dropped far away and forced to walk the remainder of the journey.”
The police operation, confirmed by Manicaland Provincial acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, is targeting mushikashika vehicles allegedly linked to a rise in theft cases.
According to police, some suspects are operating in coordinated groups, with others posing as conductors to steal from unsuspecting passengers during trips.
However, the Manicaland Association of Passengers (MAPS) has raised concern over the impact of the operation on commuters, particularly vulnerable groups.
MAPS Coordinator Lynette Mudehwe said it was regrettable that passengers were being forced to pay full fares but dropped off far from their intended destinations.
“It is unfortunate that our members are being fleeced of their hard-earned money by paying full fares only to be dropped off long distances away,” she said.
“The elderly and school children are now being forced to walk long distances, exposing them to health and security risks.”
Mudehwe urged transport operators to comply with regulations and work with law enforcement to minimise inconvenience to passengers.
“We expect transport operators to be responsible and comply with public transport regulations, including ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy and properly registered,” she said.
She also called on the City of Mutare to enforce its transport regulations, noting that the local authority has a responsibility to maintain order within the sector.
Meanwhile, prominent Mutare transport operator and Manicaland Transport Association Chairman Esau Mupfumi emphasised the need for renewed engagement between the local authority and transport stakeholders.
“There is a need for the city authorities to sit down again with transport associations and prioritise those with roadworthy kombis to access the CBD,” he said.
“The authorities must revisit this matter. Instead of having associations that only collect money, we need those that ensure vehicles are roadworthy and compliant.”
Police have maintained that the crackdown will continue until all criminal elements linked to illegal taxi operations are brought to book.
