A five-man gang was arrested recently for siphoning fuel from the Feruka pipeline. This was revealed during an event where over 40 detectives from various Criminal Investigations Department (CID) sections were recognised for arresting notorious criminals.
As reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/exposed-feruka-pipeline-fuel-theft/">The Herald</a>, detectives from CID Homicide and various regions, including Bulawayo, Mwenezi, Norton, and Marondera, were involved in the operation.
According to an awards citation that was read on Friday, between January and March 2024, reports surfaced about criminals digging one-square-metre pits to access the Feruka pipeline, causing significant fuel theft and damage to the pipeline.
The 287-kilometre-long Feruka pipeline, running from Beira (Mozambique) to Mutare (Zimbabwe), is crucial for the energy supply in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and the Congolese region of Katanga.
Investigations revealed the involvement of an international criminal syndicate, similar to thefts in South Africa where millions of litres of fuel were stolen in 2022.
The Marondera team revisited crime scenes, identifying overlooked clues. Despite initial challenges, they conducted extensive surveillance and cultivated informants to gather intelligence. Reads the citation in part:
<blockquote>
Their commitment to the investigation paid off on 17 March 2024 at around 0300 hours when they received a crucial tip-off regarding further damage to the pipeline.
The team rushed to the scene but unfortunately, arrived after the suspects had fled, leaving them without any immediate evidence.
Undeterred, the detectives utilised the department’s criminal records office, criminal analysis tools, informer network, and surveillance techniques and conducted exhaustive follow-ups.
Their relentless efforts led to the successful apprehension of five suspects in Harare, while three others managed to escape to South Africa.
Information was promptly shared with border control teams and Interpol to pursue the fugitives. Efforts are still underway to ensure that they are brought to book.
The team’s extraordinary perseverance, selflessness, attention to detail and dedication were instrumental in recovering 96 620 litres of stolen fuel valued at approximately US$144 930.
Their work did not only address this serious crime but also played a vital role in protecting the Feruka pipeline, a crucial asset for the country’s economy.
By going the extra mile, the detectives thwarted a syndicate that threatened to bring the economy to a halt, showcasing their unwavering commitment to safeguarding national interests.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

A group of five people were caught stealing fuel from a pipeline in Zimbabwe. Detectives from different regions worked together to solve the case. The pipeline is very important for supplying energy in the region. The criminals caused a lot of damage by stealing fuel. The detectives worked hard to track down the suspects, even with some escaping to South Africa. They managed to recover a large amount of stolen fuel and prevent further harm to the pipeline. Their dedication helped protect the country's economy and stop a dangerous criminal syndicate.

Five Arrested For Siphoning Fuel From Feruka Pipeline

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is this Thursday expected to officially commission the multi-million dollar medical oxygen and industrial gas plant at Feruka in Mutare.
The oxygen plant was established by Verify Engineering (VE) located at Feruka Oil Refinery in the eastern border town of Mutare with the aid of Indian engineers and the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT).
Mnangagwa was initially set to open the plant <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/15/mnangagwa-aborts-mutare-trip-as-helicopter-fails-to-land/">last Saturday but his helicopter was forced to return to Harare after failing to land</a> in Mutare due to thick fog.
In an interview with State media, Minister of Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Professor Amon Murwira, said the plant will enable the country to meet its oxygen requirements. Said Murwira:
<blockquote>
All is set for the launch by President Mnangagwa tomorrow (today). This is a technology and development entity under the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary, which will be processing medical and industrial gases.
The plant is now done and we are looking forward to the production of nitrogen and oxygen.
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The oxygen plant will among other needs, meet the demand for hospital oxygen in intensive care units, especially by critically ill COVID-19 patients.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/president-to-commission-mutare-oxygen-plant/">The Herald</a></h4>

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