A Harare commuter omnibus driver has been sentenced to two years in prison and banned for life from driving heavy vehicles after a reckless driving incident in the capital.
The Harare Magistrates Court handed down the sentence to Ruzvidzo Freedom, 32, of Hatcliffe, after he was caught driving against oncoming traffic at the busy Second Street (Sam Nujoma) and Upper East Road intersection during rush hour.
Freedom, who was behind the wheel of a Toyota Hiace, reportedly entered a one-way lane and obstructed several motorists. Although no injuries were recorded, the court ruled that his actions placed members of the public at serious risk.
As part of the ruling, his driver’s licence was cancelled, and he has been permanently prohibited from driving vehicles in classes 2, 4, and 5, categories that include minibuses, trucks, and other heavy vehicles.
In a statement, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe said the case should serve as a strong warning. “Reckless driving will not be tolerated. Driving against traffic endangers lives and can cause deadly accidents.
“Offenders will face harsh penalties, including imprisonment and lifetime driving bans. Public safety comes first. Every reckless driver is a potential killer on our roads.”
The incident comes as authorities increase calls for stricter road safety measures amid growing concern over reckless driving by public transport operators in Zimbabwe’s major cities.
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