FOUR touts were arrested and fined on Tuesday for parading a coffin with a body of a deceased driver on top of a Kombi from Chitungwiza to Highfield.
The touts Godwin Mazenge, Michael Zhuwawo, 30, both of Highfield, Anna Chere, 27, and Tawanda Mafaranyika, 27, both of Chitungwiza were arrested and charged for disorderly conduct.
At around 4.30pm, the four relatives, friends and associates of Paswell Tichare proceeded to collect the body for burial at Mbudzi Cemetery.
The group, which included touts, placed the coffin on top of a Toyota Hiace vehicle and formed a convoy from Zengeza 4 to Machipisa bus terminus.
Upon reaching Machipisa, the group blocked Main Street, disrupted the free flow of traffic, sang songs honouring their late colleague’s touting activities and engaged in reckless conduct, including vehicle skidding. The gathering was not linked to any police action or road traffic accident in Paswell Tichare’s death.
Police acted swiftly to restore order and ensure the safety of other road users by taking the body to the Police station and subsequent handover to a funeral parlour vehicle.
The coffin was subsequently removed from the Toyota Hiace and transferred into the funeral service vehicle for the continuation of burial proceedings.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the case saying the suspects have since paid admission of guilt deposit fines.
“Reference is made to social media reports alleging that some family members carried a coffin to Machipisa Police Station, Highfield, Harare, blaming the police for the death of their relative following an alleged road traffic incident involving a police officer.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police wishes to set the record straight that the alleged victim, Paswell Tichare (29) of Hopley, Harare, passed away on 05th April 2026 at Unit H Shopping Centre, Chitungwiza, after a long illness.
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“He did not die as a result of any police action or road traffic incident involving a police officer.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges members of the public to desist from spreading unverified information on social media, as this may cause unnecessary alarm and confusion.
“On the other hand, touts and relatives who parade coffins while disrupting the smooth flow of traffic will face the full wrath of law,” said Comm Nyathi.
