Nhau News Online News that is accurate, reliable, trustworthy!!
Following recent violent clashes among touts at the Mutare bus ranks, law enforcement agencies have launched a sweeping operation resulting in the arrest of at least 677 touts and 1,570 mushikashika drivers nationwide.
Bus operator Esau Mupfumi, apprehended in connection with the Mutare clashes, was granted bail of US$1,000 by Mutare provincial magistrate Mr. Tendai Mahwe, while 49 rank marshals involved were denied bail.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the extensive crackdown, emphasizing its continuation “until there is sanity” in the public transport sector. He outlined that fines would be levied on some arrested touts, with repeat offenders facing court prosecution.
Additionally, police issued warnings about imposters posing as officers, extorting money from transport operators under the guise of evading arrest for the Mutare violence. These criminals, reportedly demanding ‘security fees,’ have targeted bus operators along the Harare-Mutare route. Comm.
Nyathi urged operators to report such incidents to the authorities, assuring swift action against the perpetrators.
Notably, a Harare-based operator was coerced into paying US$300 to these imposters, prompting police intervention. The clashes, stemming from an altercation involving Mupfumi’s senior rank marshal, escalated into violent confrontations between marshals from various bus companies.
Instances of armed attacks with machetes, sticks, and knives prompted police intervention, resulting in multiple arrests and the recovery of weapons.
In subsequent clashes at Murahwa People’s Green Market in Sakubva, Mupfumi’s marshals fled to their garage upon police arrival, leading to the arrest of 11 individuals.
The operation reflects authorities’ determination to restore order and safety within the public transport sector, underscoring the seriousness with which law enforcement agencies address such incidents. *ZCA*
