ZRP Intensifies “No to Mushikashika” Operation with 572 Arrests in a Day

By Ilyana Sithole

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified its crack down on pirate kombi or mushikashika operators by arresting 572 people on 21 January 2025, bringing the number of arrests so far under the operation code-named “No to Mushikashika” to 7695.

Besides the arrests, 197 touts have been arrested, and 67 unregistered and plateless vehicles have been impounded.

The operation aims to remove all illegal public transport from the streets as they pose safety risks to passengers and cause traffic congestion and accidents.

Challenges:
The operation faces several challenges, including the large number of illegal operators, the fluid nature of the informal transport sector, and the potential for corruption.
• Scale of the Problem: The informal public transport sector is an integral part of the Zimbabwean economy, and removing them altogether seems to be a goal that, practically speaking, might not be achieved.
• Constant Adaptation: Illegal operators will devise ways of dodging the law enforcers by constantly changing routes and operating times.
• Corruption Risks: There is the risk of corrupt practices where some officers will accept bribes from illegal operators for services rendered.

Opportunities:
Despite the threats, the exercise offers several advantages:
* Reduced Road Accidents: The lessening of unlawful operators can boost road safety quite significantly by removing rogue vehicles that can be in any state of a roadworthy status and drivers unqualified.
* Reduced Traffic Congestion: Illegal operators are usually culprits to traffic congestion, especially in town. Cutting down their levels can improve traffic flow considerably.
* Formalization of the mushikashika: The operation might open ways for the formalization of the mushikashika, hence better regulation, improved safety standards, and creation of more formal employment opportunities.

The success of operation “No to Mushikashika” will depend on a multi-faceted approach that includes robust enforcement, public education campaigns, and the development of alternative, affordable, and reliable public transport options.