Kombi driver jailed two years

A Gweru commuter omnibus driver, who recently caused a stir in the central business district when he was involved in a high speed chase with the police while one of the officers clung for dear life on the kombi door, has been sentenced to two years in prison.

John Chamatwa (23), of Mkoba Village 5, who pleaded guilty to picking up commuters at an undesignated point, resisting arrest and contravening Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act, Chapter 13: 11 was also suspended from driving any motor vehicle for the next two years by Gweru magistrate, Ms Florence Nago.

Six months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour.

The remaining 18 months were suspended on condition that he performs 630 hours of community services at Mkoba One Police Station.

For the State, Mr Bernard Nyoni told the court that on 4 January, at about 8pm, Chamatwa was loading passengers at an undesignated point just outside OK Supermarket in Gweru's CBD.

He said a Sergeant Chikomo, who was patrolling in the city centre, approached Chamatwa.

Mr Nyoni said Sgt Chikomo then opened the kombi driver's door intending to arrest Chamatwa.

He said Chamatwa suddenly drove off in a bid to flee, but Sgt Chikomo clung to the driver's door, as the kombi sped off.

Mr Nyoni said Chamatwa then rammed into the back of a Nissan Hardbody, which was parked nearby resulting in the engine stalling.

Chamatwa then jumped off the kombi and fled from the scene.

Mr Nyoni said Sgt Chikomo, however, reacted fast and gave chase.

He caught up with Chamatwa and immediately arrested him.