How Robbers Use the “Door Trick” to Target Zimbabwean Passengers
Zimbabweans are being urged to remain vigilant against the infamous “Mshikashika Door Trick.” This crafty scheme, often used by robbers in pirate taxis and commuter omnibuses, has duped countless passengers over the years. With the festive season approaching—a time when crime rates typically surge—it is more important than ever to stay informed and alert.
The “Door Trick” plays on human distraction. Unsuspecting passengers are manipulated into focusing entirely on a supposedly faulty door, allowing the criminals to quietly search through their belongings. This timeless scam continues to claim victims, many of whom only realise they’ve been robbed long after the perpetrators have driven off.
How the Door Trick Works
The Mshikashika Door Trick is executed in two primary scenarios, targeting passengers either boarding or exiting vehicles.
Scenario 1: The Boarding Trap
The first variation starts the moment a passenger boards a kombi commuter omnibus or mshikashika vehicle, such as a Honda Fit, Toyota Wish, or other small fuel-efficient cars commonly used by pirate taxi operators. The driver or an accomplice will inform the passenger that the door is not closing properly and needs extra effort to secure.
“They told me to pull the door hard,” recalled a recent victim. “While I was trying to shut it, one of them rummaged through my handbag without me noticing.”
In most cases, the robbers insist repeatedly that the door hasn’t closed properly, further distracting the victim. Once they find something valuable, such as a phone or wallet, they create an excuse to eject the passenger.
“They told me, ‘It’s not safe to travel with a door that won’t close,’” the victim added. “I got out, only to realise later that my phone was missing.”
Scenario 2: The Exit Ruse
The second variation targets passengers when they are exiting the vehicle. Robbers claim that the door is stuck and needs to be forced open.
“When I tried opening the door, it wouldn’t budge,” shared another victim. “I was focused on getting it open when one of them slipped my wallet out of my pocket.”
Once the robbers have taken what they want, they open the door for the passenger, making it seem like they were simply assisting. By the time the victim realises what’s happened, the vehicle is already speeding away.
Why the Door Trick Works
The effectiveness of the Door Trick lies in its simplicity and ability to disarm the victim. Passengers are conditioned to trust drivers and fellow passengers in a shared vehicle. Additionally, the “malfunctioning door” creates a sense of urgency, forcing victims to focus entirely on the problem at hand.
“Robbers rely on distraction,” explained a safety expert. “The moment your attention shifts to something like fixing a door, you’re an easy target.”
The festive season, characterised by increased travel and shopping, makes people even more vulnerable. Many passengers carry more cash and valuables than usual, making them ideal targets for such scams.
How to Avoid Falling Victim
Authorities and safety advocates offer several tips to help Zimbabweans avoid falling prey to the Mshikashika Door Trick:
- Avoid Unfamiliar Vehicles:
Avoid boarding unfamiliar mshikashikas or commuter omnibuses already carrying two or three passengers. These scams typically involve groups of three to four people, including the driver. In some cases, women may be part of the setup to make the situation seem less suspicious. - Be Cautious with Door Issues:
If asked to open or close a door, politely decline or proceed with extreme caution. Keep your belongings secure and out of reach of others. Holding your bag firmly on your lap or moving it to a side inaccessible to others can help. - Travel in Familiar Transport:
Opt for registered taxis or kombis whenever possible. Unregistered mshikashikas are not only unsafe but are also hotspots for such criminal activities. - Trust Your Instincts:
If something feels off—such as being asked to repeatedly close or open a door—insist on disembarking immediately.
Sharing Experiences to Raise Awareness
Zimbabweans are encouraged to share their experiences with the Door Trick to help others stay alert. Social media platforms and community groups can be powerful tools in raising awareness and exposing the tactics used by robbers.
“I wish I had known about this scam beforehand,” lamented one victim. “If people share their stories, others can avoid falling into the same trap.”
The festive season should be a time of joy and celebration, not one of loss and regret. Staying informed and vigilant can help ensure everyone enjoys this time of year safely.
Have you encountered the Mshikashika Door Trick? Share your story and help others stay safe this festive season.
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The post Beware the “Mshikashika Door Trick”: Festive Season Alert for Zimbabweans appeared first on iHarare News.
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