Police say a shocking 81 percent of all kombis running in Harare never registered with authorities. That means 13,000 out of 16,000 minibus taxis operate completely outside the law. These numbers came straight from National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi during a recent Media Engagement Forum held by the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services.
Commissioner Nyathi emphasized that Zimbabwe has laws for every activity, including public transportation. He expressed frustration that most kombi operators play hide-and-seek with these regulations instead of following them. The government created clear rules to help citizens start legitimate businesses, but many drivers simply pocket money without caring about passenger safety or legal compliance.
The police spokesperson insisted all kombis must register properly, and operators must act as responsible citizens. He mentioned that Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba promised strict action against any officer who endangers Zimbabweans by ignoring police standards. Since January, authorities have seized between 1,000 and 10,000 vehicles as part of an ongoing operation to enforce regulations.
Officials inspect these impounded vehicles with representatives from VID, police, local government, and other relevant agencies present. They check for proper registration and roadworthiness before allowing vehicles back on the streets. Nyathi stated plainly that they will continue arresting drivers and seizing kombis until everyone complies with existing transportation laws.
The commissioner advised the public against riding in unregistered vehicles for their safety. He pointed out these kombis lack insurance coverage, creating major problems when accidents happen. After fatal crashes, the government often pays funeral expenses because illegal operators contribute nothing despite making money from their businesses. Nyathi emphasized the non-negotiable nature of these laws.
He also addressed Kombi drivers directly about fleeing from police. Nyathi reminded them that arrests simply allow the legal process to work, questioning why anyone needs to run away. He explained they could simply go to court or pay fines and then resume business legally. The commissioner noted that many drivers escape because they operate completely outside registration requirements, like wild cattle.
Commissioner Nyathi made clear that police will not allow lawlessness to continue. He mentioned that people circulate old videos showing confrontations with officers but warned that anyone interfering with police duties faces consequences. The government created laws allowing citizens to make money legitimately, and authorities expect compliance with these regulations.
Police have started targeting both sides in corruption cases. Previously, when officers faced charges, witnesses often disappeared, leading to acquittals. Nyathi warned they now arrest both the officer and anyone offering bribes. He called for Zimbabweans to change their attitudes toward national development. The commissioner confirmed meetings with kombi associations, the Ministry of Transport, and other relevant ministries, reiterating that everyone wanting to operate transport businesses must register according to government regulations.
Commissioner Nyathi emphasized that Zimbabwe has laws for every activity, including public transportation. He expressed frustration that most kombi operators play hide-and-seek with these regulations instead of following them. The government created clear rules to help citizens start legitimate businesses, but many drivers simply pocket money without caring about passenger safety or legal compliance.
The police spokesperson insisted all kombis must register properly, and operators must act as responsible citizens. He mentioned that Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba promised strict action against any officer who endangers Zimbabweans by ignoring police standards. Since January, authorities have seized between 1,000 and 10,000 vehicles as part of an ongoing operation to enforce regulations.
Officials inspect these impounded vehicles with representatives from VID, police, local government, and other relevant agencies present. They check for proper registration and roadworthiness before allowing vehicles back on the streets. Nyathi stated plainly that they will continue arresting drivers and seizing kombis until everyone complies with existing transportation laws.
The commissioner advised the public against riding in unregistered vehicles for their safety. He pointed out these kombis lack insurance coverage, creating major problems when accidents happen. After fatal crashes, the government often pays funeral expenses because illegal operators contribute nothing despite making money from their businesses. Nyathi emphasized the non-negotiable nature of these laws.
He also addressed Kombi drivers directly about fleeing from police. Nyathi reminded them that arrests simply allow the legal process to work, questioning why anyone needs to run away. He explained they could simply go to court or pay fines and then resume business legally. The commissioner noted that many drivers escape because they operate completely outside registration requirements, like wild cattle.
Commissioner Nyathi made clear that police will not allow lawlessness to continue. He mentioned that people circulate old videos showing confrontations with officers but warned that anyone interfering with police duties faces consequences. The government created laws allowing citizens to make money legitimately, and authorities expect compliance with these regulations.
Police have started targeting both sides in corruption cases. Previously, when officers faced charges, witnesses often disappeared, leading to acquittals. Nyathi warned they now arrest both the officer and anyone offering bribes. He called for Zimbabweans to change their attitudes toward national development. The commissioner confirmed meetings with kombi associations, the Ministry of Transport, and other relevant ministries, reiterating that everyone wanting to operate transport businesses must register according to government regulations.
