Ivan Zhakata –Herald Correspondent THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified its clampdown on lawlessness on Harare’s roads, arresting 1 050 people since the launch of an ongoing operation targeting pirate taxis, touts and reckless drivers. In a statement, the ZRP said the operation, which began on July 22, 2025 led to the impounding of 479 pirate taxis, some of which were operating without number plates. Barricades being installed long Willowvale Road in Harare yesterday. Picture:Nicholas Bakili. “Of the 479 impounded vehicles, 10 have been established to be stolen vehicles. The cases are now being investigated by the CID Vehicle Theft Squad (VTS),” reads the statement. Police also said some of the vehicles seized were unregistered, highlighting the extent of the illegal operations plaguing Harare’s transport sector. As part of the operation, the ZRP also arrested 308 touts, many of whom have since appeared in court. Barricades being installed long Willowvale Road in Harare yesterday. Picture:Nicholas Bakili “Some of the touts have been taken to court and remanded to 31 July 2025, while others paid deposit fines. A number of them are also being screened for repeat offences and will face further action by the courts,” reads the statement The crackdown also exposed brazen defiance by motorists. According to ZRP, 551 traffic violators fled from police checkpoints during the operation. “These drivers drove away or escaped upon approaching police checkpoints. The vehicle registration numbers will be published soon to assist in locating and prosecuting the offenders,” reads the statement. The ZRP appealed to the public to help promote road discipline and curb lawlessness on the roads. “We urge all motorists and commuters to observe the country’s road rules and regulations as we work together to ensure road safety.” The operation comes amid growing public frustration over the chaos caused by unregulated taxis and touts, particularly in the capital’s central business district and key commuter routes.