News / Local
Police, pirate taxis in running battles
17 Sep 2023 at 03:00hrs | Views
On Friday in Bulawayo, police engaged in ongoing clashes with pirate taxi operators as the law enforcement agency escalated its crackdown on illegal transportation providers in the city.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police initiated an operation targeting unlicensed transport operators last week, with the goal of restoring order on the country's roadways.
A quick survey conducted by Southern Eye on Sunday revealed that the traditional pick-up points for pirate taxis in the central business district were vacant. Commuters faced difficulties securing transportation during peak hours, and a heavy police presence was evident.
Mikel Moyo, a pirate taxi driver, stated that the police were dispersing them from the CBD.
"The police are arresting us at our traditional pick-up points, claiming that we are causing traffic congestion," Moyo explained. "The way the police are handling the operation puts people's lives at risk, as some drivers resort to driving against oncoming traffic while attempting to escape from police officers."
The Zimbabwe Republic Police initiated an operation targeting unlicensed transport operators last week, with the goal of restoring order on the country's roadways.
A quick survey conducted by Southern Eye on Sunday revealed that the traditional pick-up points for pirate taxis in the central business district were vacant. Commuters faced difficulties securing transportation during peak hours, and a heavy police presence was evident.
Mikel Moyo, a pirate taxi driver, stated that the police were dispersing them from the CBD.
"The police are arresting us at our traditional pick-up points, claiming that we are causing traffic congestion," Moyo explained. "The way the police are handling the operation puts people's lives at risk, as some drivers resort to driving against oncoming traffic while attempting to escape from police officers."
Source - The Standard
