Mangochi Police have arrested 29 Kabaza operators and confiscated 36 bicycles in a night operation aimed at curbing crime and road accidents.
The operation, conducted on January 12, 2026, between midnight and 2:00 a.m., targeted hotspot areas including Soko, Matapwata, Mpondasi, and the Main Market Square.
According to Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi, Public Relations Officer for Mangochi Police Station, the operation was prompted by public concerns that some Kabaza operators are involved in criminal activities and road accidents.
“We conducted this operation in response to public concern that some Kabaza operators are contributing to crime and road accidents in our policing area. During the operation, we impounded 36 Kabaza bicycles and arrested 29 operators after they were found operating during odd hours,” she said.
Daudi revealed that police statistics support these concerns, indicating that Kabaza bicycles are sometimes used as a means of mobility for criminals before and after committing offences.
The operation found many Kabaza bicycles to be unroadworthy, lacking safety features like lights and reflective signs, and operators not wearing reflective jackets. The arrested operators will be fined under the Road Traffic Act.
Police urge Kabaza operators to comply with regulations and avoid endangering themselves and others. Similar operations will continue to ensure a safer Mangochi.
