HARARE - A Harare magistrate has jailed 13 commuter omnibus drivers for driving without adequate documentation.

Edmore Masemu, Fani Chakoma, Cuthbert Gumbira, Munyaradzi Tswatanyi, Teerai Vhenge, Tonderai Moses, Kudakwashe Chivovori, Tebulo Veremu, Kaya Shadreck, Pareramwe Givemore, Mutupe Isa, Elisha Donza and Fradreck Maguraninga all pleaded guilty.

They appeared in court on separate records and were each jailed for six months by Harare magistrate Don Ndirowei.

Another driver, 70-year-old Lovemore Mareketwa was spared jail and fined $50 for the same charges. If he fails to pay the fine, he will spend 30 days behind bars.

Old age and a poor health worked in Mareketwa’s favour, compelling Ndirowei to pass a lenient sentence.

Ndirowei also suspended three months on condition that Mareketwa behaves well for the next five years.

All the 14 were arrested after they were caught driving their commuter omnibuses without going for retests. Retests have become a prerequisite for public transport drivers.

Innocent Chingarande appeared for the State. - Tendai Kamhungira