Police Crack Down on ‘Mushikashika’ as Drivers Ordered to Explain Vehicle Dents
Police in Harare have stepped up operations against illegal transport operators, with more than 200 vehicles impounded in the past two weeks.
The blitz, targeting unregistered taxis commonly known as “Mushikashika,” is part of a wider effort to restore order in the Central Business District (CBD), where authorities say traffic violations and criminal activity have been on the rise.
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Drivers Ordered to Explain Vehicle Damage
Authorities say some of the impounded vehicles show visible damage, raising suspicions that they may have been involved in hit-and-run incidents.
Speaking to H-Metro, Officer Commanding Harare Metropolitan Province, Maxwell Chikunguru, said all vehicle owners and drivers will be required to account for any dents.
“Every driver must explain how their vehicle was damaged and prove that it is not linked to a hit-and-run case,” he said.
Vehicles to Be Released Under Strict Conditions
According to police, the impounded vehicles will only be released to verified owners who meet legal requirements under the Road Traffic Act.
This includes proper registration for vehicles used to transport passengers, as authorities move to clamp down on unlicensed operators.
Police are also scrutinising ownership records to ensure that all vehicles comply with legal transfer procedures.
Commuters Urged to Avoid Mushikashika
Commissioner Chikunguru warned members of the public against using Mushikashika services, saying some of the vehicles are linked to criminal activities.
He said the ongoing operation will expose illegal transport networks and help bring offenders to justice.
Warning Against Name-Dropping and Corruption
Police also issued a stern warning to motorists attempting to evade arrest by claiming connections to senior officers.
Chikunguru said such tactics would be investigated thoroughly as part of efforts to combat corruption within the system.
Operation Set to Continue
Authorities have vowed to maintain pressure until order is restored on Harare’s roads, particularly targeting vehicles operating without registration plates.
Police say holding bays will continue to fill as more Mushikashika vehicles are removed from circulation, signalling a sustained crackdown on illegal transport in the city.
The post ‘Account for Every Dent’ — Police Warn Mushikashika Drivers Amid CBD Blitz appeared first on iHarare News.
