Harare Indrive Driver Convicted of Kidnapping Over Fare Dispute

Passenger safety has been put into question (image source)

In a case that has rattled Harare’s ride-hailing community, Talent Mhembere, a 33-year-old Indrive driver, has been convicted of kidnapping a female passenger over a fare disagreement. The November 2024 incident has sparked widespread debate about passenger safety and driver accountability in Zimbabwe’s growing gig economy.

The Ordeal

The victim, Faith Gwena, 28, had booked a ride from Fife Avenue to Riverside Walk in Avondale. The agreed fare was US$2.50. Upon arrival, Gwena offered a US$10 note, which Mhembere refused, claiming he had no change.

What followed was a terrifying ordeal.

“He locked the doors and sped off. I screamed, but no one could hear me,” Gwena recounted during her court testimony.

Mhembere drove toward King George Road, ignoring Gwena’s pleas. At a Total Service Station, a bystander attempted to intervene, but Mhembere evaded capture. He later called an accomplice, identified only as Purazi, who demanded the full US$10 before throwing US$7 change on the ground and fleeing the scene.

Legal Fallout

Harare magistrate Lisa Mutendereki found Mhembere guilty, citing overwhelming evidence and the psychological trauma inflicted on the victim. Sentencing is expected later this month.

Legal analyst Tawanda Nyambirai said the ruling underscored a broader problem:

“This case highlights the urgent need for ride-hailing platforms to implement real-time monitoring and emergency alert systems.”

Industry Response

Indrive Zimbabwe has yet to issue a formal statement, but the case has already prompted calls for stricter driver vetting and improved passenger protection protocols.

For further context on ride-hailing risks, The Dark Side of InDrive Drivers in Zimbabwe | Toxic Habits explores troubling passenger experiences and driver behaviors, while InDrive Drivers Targeted in Police Crackdown | Zimbabwean examines recent law enforcement measures aimed at informal operators.

Public Reaction

The incident triggered outrage across social media, with many users recounting similar experiences. The hashtag #SafeRidesZW trended on X (formerly Twitter), amplifying calls for urgent reforms.

“We need panic buttons in every ride. This is unacceptable,” tweeted @ZimSafetyWatch.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a review of ride-hailing safety protocols. Meanwhile, consumer rights groups are urging Parliament to pass legislation mandating GPS tracking and driver background checks for all ride-hailing operators.