ZRP Cracks Down on Touts, Rank Marshals Disrupting Public Transport
By Loyd Matare
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has expressed concern over the persistent disruptions of public transport services by touts, rank marshals, and hooligans, warning that their activities will no longer be tolerated.
In a statement, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that touts are not only disrupting public transport but also endangering the well-being of commuters across the country.
“Touts and rank marshals have been observed loading vehicles in the middle of roads and at undesignated places, leading to traffic chaos and hindrances to smooth vehicular movement,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
“This has not only worsened congestion in Central Business Districts around the country but also poses serious safety risks to both commuters and other road users.”
Commissioner Nyathi also noted that some touts and rank marshals have been engaging in violent, theft, and other criminal activities, creating an atmosphere of fear and discomfort among passengers.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police issues a stern warning to these perpetrators and urges transport operators to refrain from hiring touts and bouncers, who are not only tarnishing the reputation of the transport industry in the country but also undermining its efficiency and effectiveness,” he warned.
The police have intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for engaging in illegal practices that undermine the well-being of the commuting public.
He also urged members of the public to report any incidents of misconduct, harassment, or criminal behavior involving touts and rank marshals to any nearest police station.
This crackdown comes as the country is facing an economic downturn, with high unemployment rates leading to the proliferation of unregistered vehicles touting in the streets of Harare.
As a result, many youths have turned to become touts and rank marshals to earn a living, despite causing disruptions and irritation to commuters.
Most bus termini have witnessed a surge in the number of touts and rank marshals, a phenomenon that has become the new norm in Zimbabwe.
