Kombis and pirate taxis (Mushikashika) are back on the roads in Harare despite a 21-day stay-at-home order imposed by the government on March 30 to curb the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus.
Under the lockdown measure, only Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) buses and public service commission buses are allowed to ferry people for essential services.
However, daring kombi and Mushikashika crews are back on the road, with some plying local routes charging various amounts from $10.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi on Wednesday said the transport operators were engaging in criminal activity and the long arm of the law will soon catch up with them. He said:
We have heard of these pirate taxis and kombis plying various routes illegally.
It is criminal.
The police deployed in various suburbs should ensure that there are no unruly elements where kombis and pirate taxis defy the law.
Those people should be arrested.
Motorists should adhere to regulations. Those who are using dubious means to get into town will be dealt with.