A Harare kombi driver has been sentenced to two years in prison and permanently banned from driving after a dangerous rush-hour incident that saw him deliberately drive into oncoming traffic, endangering the lives of dozens of motorists.
Ruzvidzo Freedom, 32, of Hatcliffe, appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court on 28 March 2025, where he was found guilty of reckless driving. The court heard that Freedom, operating a Toyota Hiace minibus, entered a one-way lane at the busy intersection of Second Street (Sam Nujoma) and Upper East Road, forcing other drivers to take evasive action to avoid a collision. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but prosecutors and the court emphasised that the outcome could have been catastrophic.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Freedom’s manoeuvre was not accidental. Witnesses told police that he deliberately drove against the flow of traffic during peak morning hours, creating chaos at a busy junction that serves as a main artery for commuters entering the city centre.
“His actions placed the public at great risk,” the NPA said in a statement following the court proceedings. “While we are fortunate that no injuries were recorded, the potential for loss of life was extremely high. Such behaviour cannot be tolerated on our roads.”
The NPA highlighted that reckless driving incidents of this nature compromise road safety and can have devastating consequences, particularly in urban areas where traffic volumes are high and motorists must navigate congested streets.
Magistrate T. Chigwata handed down a two-year custodial sentence with no option for a fine, reflecting the severity of Freedom’s offence. The judge described the driver’s conduct as “completely unacceptable” and noted that it demonstrated a disregard for the safety of the public.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court imposed a permanent ban on Freedom’s ability to drive professionally. His driver’s licence has been cancelled, and he is prohibited from operating vehicles in classes 2, 4, and 5, which cover minibuses, trucks, and other heavy vehicles. This effectively ends his career as a kombi operator and serves as a stern warning to other professional drivers.
“The court’s decision was intended to send a clear message to all motorists,” the NPA said. “Reckless behaviour on our roads, particularly that which places the lives of commuters at risk, will not be tolerated. Drivers must exercise discipline and responsibility at all times.”
Harare Kombi Driver Jailed and Banned for Life After Driving Into Oncoming Traffic
The case has reignited discussions about road safety in Harare, especially concerning minibus taxis, which carry hundreds of passengers daily. Experts have warned that reckless driving by professional operators poses a serious threat to the public and undermines efforts to maintain order on busy city streets.
“Incidents like this illustrate the need for strict enforcement of traffic regulations and professional standards among kombi operators,” said a transport analyst. “Drivers must understand that their actions can have life-or-death consequences. Legal consequences must be severe to deter risky behaviour.”
The Harare incident also underscores the importance of public awareness and adherence to traffic rules. Authorities continue to encourage motorists to report dangerous driving and to cooperate with police in ensuring that roads remain safe for all users.
Using the case as an example, the NPA emphasised that reckless driving is a serious criminal offence with far-reaching consequences. Their bulletin concluded with a stern warning to all drivers across Zimbabwe:
“Professional drivers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of passengers and other road users. Reckless behaviour, particularly during rush hours in busy city centres, will attract severe penalties, including imprisonment and permanent driving bans.”
The prosecution also urged public transport operators and taxi associations to educate drivers about the importance of safe driving practices and the legal ramifications of negligent behaviour.
While no one was injured in the incident, the Harare kombi driver’s actions serve as a stark reminder that lapses in judgment behind the wheel can have devastating consequences. Authorities hope that the sentencing will act as a deterrent to other drivers who may be tempted to flout traffic laws in pursuit of speed, convenience, or profit.
The case of Ruzvidzo Freedom highlights the judiciary’s determination to protect public safety and enforce strict compliance with road safety laws. As urban traffic continues to increase, officials insist that accountability for reckless driving is essential to prevent accidents and safeguard lives on Zimbabwe’s roads.
Source- iHarare
