Operation Tame the Traffic Jungle: Over 100,000 Arrested
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced that over 100,000 people have been arrested since the beginning of Operation Tame the Traffic Jungle a month ago.
Police launched Operation Tame the Traffic Jungle on September 12, 2023, to address the widespread disregard for traffic laws, particularly in major cities and towns. In a statement seen by Pindula News, police stated that instances such as driving against traffic flow, running red lights, and reckless lane violations have contributed to chaos and congestion.
Since then, police have also been taking action against heavy vehicles that inappropriately traverse residential areas instead of using designated routes as stipulated by national regulations and local by-laws. In the latest update on Operation Tame the Traffic Jungle, the police said over 100,000 had been arrested. Read the statement:
The ZRP reports that a total of 104 282 arrests have been effected during the ongoing operation, “Tame the Traffic Jungle”. So far 2 367 arrests have been made on vehicles without route permits while 31 109 arrests have been made on illegal pirate taxis (mushikashika). 486 motorists have been arrested for reckless driving while 7 703 people have been arrested for touting. Meanwhile,1 893 vehicles have been impounded for moving on the roads without registration plates.
Unintended Impact:
The operation has caused unintended difficulties for commuters as they now struggle to find transportation, with informal Mshika-shika operators often clashing with the police, resulting in delays for passengers. Since the formal public transport system has collapsed, registered vehicles are insufficient to meet the needs of the growing urban population. Analysts suggest creating more parking spaces, reducing taxes, and improving infrastructure as potential solutions to the transportation challenges.
