Stop Hitchhiking, Use Public Transport: Police Warn
n Picture: Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko n nn n By Delicious Mathuthu n nn n Gweru - The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned members of the public to avoid using pirate taxes (mushika-shika) when travelling, but only public transport foll
anostrofy Picture: Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko
By Delicious Mathuthu
Gweru - The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned members of the public to avoid using pirate taxes (mushika-shika) when travelling, but only public transport following a highway robbery incident that occurred along the Gweru-Bulawayo on Saturday.
Police said the public should strictly use registered public transport and avoid unmarked private vehicles.
ZRP Spokesperson in the Midlands Province, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed details of the latest incident, emphasizing the pattern of crime associated with the pirate taxis.
"The Police are advising travellers to always use public service vehicles as these mushika -shikas are being used by robbers," Inspector Mahoko said in a statement released early Wednesday.
The advisory follows the confirmed Saturday, November 22, 2025, highway robbery report which occured at approximately 1500 hours, near Dabuka.
The victim in the case reportedly boarded a silver Toyota Wish without number plates at the Fairmile traffic circle, intending to travel to Somabula. Already in the vehicle were five other occupants.
"Upon reaching the first bus stop after the flyover opposite the Southview Extension residential area, the driver suddenly stopped the vehicle.
"One of the suspects produced a knife and demanded cash and cell phones, while the others searched him," Inspector Mahoko said.
The robbers subsequently stole a cell phone and US$7.00 in cash from the victim.
Police have opened an investigation into the matter and are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects.
