Parliament has expressed concerns over the high-speed chases involving Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers and unregistered taxis, commonly known as mushikashika, as well as commuter omnibuses. Lawmakers argue that these pursuits pose a serious risk to public safety.
During a recent session in the National Assembly, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislator Traswell Chikomo highlighted the dangers caused by ongoing clashes between law enforcement and public transport operators.
“In Harare, we are witnessing a troubling situation where police and commuter omnibus drivers are engaged in frequent chases. When police officers attempt to apprehend operators, rank marshals alert them, leading to attempts to evade arrest. Unfortunately, this often results in passengers getting injured. This situation is unsustainable,” Chikomo stated.
The Glen View MP emphasized the need for stricter regulations to address the ongoing standoff between police and transport operators.
Parliament Raises Alarm Over Police Pursuit of Pirate Taxis and Commuter Omnibuses. Photocredit-Newsday
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“As a nation, we must introduce laws to manage this issue. Currently, people feel unsafe due to these high-speed chases,” he added.
Police crackdowns on commuter omnibuses and pirate taxis have, in some cases, led to the loss of innocent lives, raising concerns about public safety and law enforcement tactics.
However, Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda appeared to dismiss these concerns, questioning why the drivers flee if they have not committed any offenses.
“If they are innocent, why do they run? When a vehicle is stationary and the police approach, why should the driver flee? Commuter omnibus drivers must simply follow the law,” Mudenda remarked.
Despite concerns over their operations, commuter omnibuses remain a vital mode of transport for many Zimbabweans.
