Driver, conductor kidnap cop

A Harare kombi driver and his conductor were arrested on Tuesday for allegedly kidnapping a police officer while attempting to evade arrest in the city centre.

George Mfuka, 24, and his conductor, Sonchess Tafadzwa Soche, 32, reportedly forced Assistant Inspector Tashinga Mashiri into their commuter omnibus along Julius Nyerere Way at around 8pm and drove him to Eastlea, with passengers still on board.

The incident unfolded when Assistant Inspector Mashiri, accompanied by Constable Leeyer Mumba on Provincial Reaction Group duties, intercepted Mfuka driving a kombi (registration AGP 8458) and instructed him to drop off the passengers. Mfuka allegedly refused, and Soche reportedly influenced him to lock the doors and drive off with the police officer aboard. The vehicle proceeded along Robert Mugabe Road and onto Simon Muzenda Street.

Passengers reportedly complained during the ordeal, prompting Mfuka to stop along Chiremba Road to let them disembark. Police units, mobilized and following the vehicle, then arrested both Mfuka and Soche.

The two are currently being held at Harare Central Police Station under IR 100905. National police spokesperson Commissioner Nyathi was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.

The bizarre incident has raised questions about commuter safety and law enforcement challenges in the city, with authorities appealing for vigilance and cooperation from public transport operators.