Police net 143 touts in week-long blitz
Police in Harare have arrested 143 touts in a sweeping crackdown targeting harassment at commuter ranks — days after a Grade 7 girl was allegedly raped in a parked kombi at Rezende Parkade.
The arrests took place between Monday and Thursday, 4 to 7 August 2025, and form part of a broader campaign to restore order in the capital’s chaotic transport system.
Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the developments in a statement to H-Metro.
“During the blitz, 143 touts were arrested and taken to court. Police continue to warn touts over harassing pedestrians and passengers,” he said.
According to police figures, 25 touts were arrested on Monday, 30 on Tuesday, 45 on Wednesday, and 33 on Thursday.
Grade 7 girl attacked in parked kombi
The crackdown follows a disturbing incident reported on 5 August 2025 in which a 13-year-old learner was raped in a parked white Toyota Hiace kombi at Rezende Parkade in the CBD.
Inspector Chakanza detailed the sequence of events.
“The complainant left home proceeding to town where she was supposed to collect her money at corner Leopold Takawira and Jason Moyo. Upon arrival, she was given cash and immediately stated she wanted to return home,” he said.
He explained that while trying to make her way through the rank, touts blocked her path.
“She was approached by the accused person, who purported that he wanted to help her. He ordered her into a parked, white Toyota Hiace where he locked and raped her once without protection,” Chakanza said.
The suspect fled, leaving the child locked inside. She did not report the incident immediately and only confided in a teacher after her uncle visited the school to enquire about her late return home.
Police target lawlessness in transport sector
Harare police have said the arrests are part of a larger operation also targeting unlicensed kombis and those loading passengers at unauthorised points.
Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru is expected to meet kombi operators today to discuss impounded vehicles and compliance measures. He will also lead a traffic safety initiative at Mbare Musika involving multiple stakeholders.
Police have appealed to the public for any information that could assist in arresting the suspect in the Rezende rape case.
“We appeal for information that may lead to the arrest of the perpetrator,” Inspector Chakanza urged.
Follow Us on Google News for Immediate Updates
The post 143 Touts Arrested In Harare After Grade 7 Girl Raped In Parked Kombi appeared first on iHarare News.
