‘Operation Guta Ngarigare Rakachena’: Harare Police Clamp Down on Vendors, Illegal Taxis, and Touts Ahead of SADC Summit

Harare Police Clamp Down on Vendors, Illegal Pirate Taxis and Touts Ahead of SADC Summit

In preparation for the upcoming Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and Harare Metropolitan Police have crackdown on touts, vendors and illegal pirate taxis.

The authorities are intensifying efforts to enforce city regulations on vendors, car wash operators, and illegal pirate taxis, known locally as mushikashika.

Also Read: Zimbabwe Bans All Public Gatherings & Shows Ahead of SADC Summit, Fiesta Fiesta Show Postponed

Preparations for the SADC Summit

Zimbabwe is set to host the 44th SADC Summit on August 17, 2024, at the newly constructed Parliament Building in Mt. Hampden’s New City.

This high profile event, which will also see Zimbabwe assume the SADC chairmanship, is a high-profile gathering of Southern African leaders.

In a coordinated effort to ensure peace and order in the city ahead of the Summit the authorities unveiled ‘Operation Guta Ngarigare Rakachena,’ during a roadshow and awareness campaign on Rezende Street in Harare.

The authorities have made it clear that only licensed vendors will be allowed to operate in Harare ahead of the SADC Summit. To enforce this regulation, a system of yellow and red cards will be implemented.

“Only licensed vendors will be allowed to operate, and we will issue yellow cards to those who fail to comply. Repeat offenders will receive red cards and will be taken into custody,” a police spokesperson explained.

Clamping Down on Illegal Taxi Operations

Police have also issued warnings to illegal pirate taxi operators about the consequences of using touts for unauthorized pickups and drop-offs.

“Using touts to coerce passengers will result in legal action,” the spokesperson said.

The operation aims to address dangerous parking, illegal pickups and drop-offs, and other obstructions.

“Our goal is to maintain a clean and orderly city ahead of the SADC Summit,” they added.

Nationwide Anti-Tout Initiative

Furthermore, the police recently launched a nationwide crackdown named “No To Touts,” targeting touting gangs affiliated with pirate taxis and public service vehicles.

This initiative also focuses on unlicensed vendors and mushikashika drivers operating outside designated areas.

“We urge vendors to operate in designated areas and kombi drivers to use official ranks, not the streets,” the spokesperson emphasized.

Government Bans Public Events

In preparation for the summit, the Zimbabwean government has also banned all public gatherings, shows, and events scheduled for August. This measure aims to ensure a smooth and orderly environment for the SADC Summit.

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