Over 1,000 Arrested in Harare as Police Crack Down on Pirate Taxis and Reckless Driving

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested over 1,050 individuals in Harare since 22 July 2025, as part of an ongoing operation targeting unlicensed pirate taxis, touts, and dangerous driving on the capital’s roads.

According to the police, 479 pirate taxis were impounded during the blitz, and 10 of these vehicles have been identified as stolen, with investigations now being handled by the Criminal Investigations Department’s Vehicle Theft Squad (CID VTS).

Authorities also revealed that some of the impounded vehicles were not registered with the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR), raising further legal and safety concerns.

In addition, the ZRP has arrested 308 touts across various commuter ranks. Some have already appeared in court and were remanded to 31 July, while others paid deposit fines. The police are currently screening the arrested touts to identify repeat offenders, who may face stricter penalties.

A staggering 551 motorists have been flagged for fleeing from police checkpoints. The ZRP has confirmed that the vehicle registration numbers of those who evaded law enforcement will soon be made public as part of efforts to ensure accountability and deter future violations.

The ZRP has since urged all motorists and commuters to adhere to the country’s road rules and regulations, stressing that the operation is aimed at promoting road safety and curbing lawlessness on the roads.

“Let us all play our part in ensuring our roads are safe by respecting traffic laws and operating within the legal framework,” said a police spokesperson.

The operation is expected to continue in the coming days, with more arrests and vehicle seizures anticipated.