Harare Police Impound 186 Death-Trap Kombis in 3-Day Blitz
HARARE — A total of 186 public transport vehicles, including 178 commuter omnibuses (kombis) and eight conventional buses, were impounded last week during a targeted police operation in Harare East and Chitungwiza.
The three-day blitz, conducted from Wednesday to Friday, aimed to remove unroadworthy vehicles from the city’s roads and protect commuters from unsafe transport.
Dubbed “No To Unroadworthy Vehicles,” the operation exposed widespread violations of road safety regulations.
Many of the impounded vehicles lacked valid Certificates of Fitness and were operating illegally as mushikashika — unauthorized private taxis.
Several private cars used for passenger transport were also seized.
Police say the crackdown was launched to restore order and reduce the risk of accidents caused by defective vehicles.
Acting Officer Commanding Harare Province, Assistant Commissioner Sithulisiwe Mthimkhulu, and senior officers including Commissioner Paul Nyathi, oversaw the inspection of the impounded fleet at Milton Park Police Station.
“It is disturbing to note that some unroadworthy vehicles belong to transport associations.
“These vehicles pose a significant danger to commuters, with issues such as covered windows and shattered windshields,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
The impounded vehicles will be subjected to thorough inspections by the Vehicle Theft Squad, the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), and the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (ZINARA).
Only registered owners who pay the required fines will be allowed to reclaim their vehicles.
“Additionally, any small vehicles used for unauthorised passenger transport will also be impounded,” Nyathi added, reaffirming the police’s commitment to enforcing safety standards.
The operation revealed a troubling disregard for roadworthiness among many public transport operators.
Authorities say such vehicles pose daily risks to passengers due to mechanical defects and poor maintenance.
However, the crackdown has sparked concerns over fairness.
Kombi driver Shadreck Sinyoro alleged that some vehicles owned by police officers were spared despite failing to meet safety requirements.
“We urge authorities to ensure fairness in their operations,” Sinyoro said.
In contrast, public transport association representative Shadreck Maguramhinga urged operators to comply with the law and prioritize commuter safety.
“We encourage our members to adhere to the law for the safety of commuters.
“While operating documents can be expensive, they should not justify unsafe practices that endanger lives,” he said.
According to H-Metro, the operation has reignited debate over the state of Harare’s public transport system and the urgent need for reform.
Police say similar blitzes will continue until all vehicles on the road meet minimum safety standards.
