Crime writer
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified efforts of apprehending touts who ‘are causing chaos and endangering people’s lives in the country’s urban areas’.
ZRP spokesman, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said:
“The ZRP has noted with concern the persistent disruptions of public transport services at termini and some undesignated pick up points by touts, rank marshals and hooligans whose activities are not only disrupting public transport but also endangering the well being of commuters across the country.
“Touts and rank marshals have been observed loading vehicles in the middle of the road and at undesignated places, leading to traffic chaos and hinderances to smooth vehicular movement. This has not only worserned congestion in the Central Business Districts (CBDs),around the country, but also poses serious to both commuters and other road users.
In some instances, touts and rank marshals who would be visibly intoxicated, will be harassing and intimidating commuting public, with others engaging in violence, theft and other criminal activities, creating an atmosphere of fear and discomfort among passengers.”
Commissioner Nyathi issued a warning against touts and urged transport operators to desist from hiring touts and bouncers as they have tarnished their image.
“ZRP issues a stern warning to these perpetrators and urges transport operators to refrain from hiring touts and bouncers who are not only tarnishing the reputation of the transport industry in the country but also undermining its effiency and effectiveness.
“The police has intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for engaging in illegal practices that undermine the well being of the commuting public.”
Commissioner Nyathi called on members of the public to report cases of harassment or touts misconduct to the police.