Business Unit Manager x2 (Harare)

Vehicle Sales Consultant - JAC (Harare)

Vehicle Sales Consultant – DONG FENG (Harare)

Vehicle Sales Consultant – BAIC (Harare)

Spray Painter (Harare)

Motor Vehicle Panel Beater (Harare)

Team Leaders x7

Billing Supervisor (Harare)

Sales Representative (Harare)

Auto Electrician: Artisan (Chipinge)

Sales Representatives (Harare)

Boilermaker- Class 1 (Mutorashanga)

Director Human Resource (Mutare)

Content Developers And Content Reviewers Of Social Work Modules

Accounts Clerk (Marondera)

Lecturers: Faculty of Social and Gender Transformative Sciences x6

Secretary: Department of Social Work (Harare)

Senior Airport Attendant (Harare)

Human Resource Officer (Harare)

Secretary (Harare)

Business Analyst (Mutare)

Statistician (Harare)

Assistant Batch Plant Operator (Harare)

Solar Electrical Technician (Harare)

Nurse Training January 2025 Intake

Sales Representative x2 (Bulawayo)

TFCA Programme Officer (Grade D1)

Senior Internal Auditor (Harare)

Human Capital Consultant (Harare)

Property Portfolio Manager (Bulawayo)

Legal & Compliance Manager (Harare)

Processes Analyst (Harare)

Finance Manager Corporate (Harare)

Tyre Fitter (Chipinge)

Auto Electrician (Chipinge)

Class One Electrician (Harare)

Underwriting Administrator (Bulawayo)

Undertaker (Harare & Bulawayo)

Mortician (Harare & Bulawayo)

Funeral Consultant (Harare & Bulawayo)

Accounts Officer (Bulawayo)

Transport Clerk (Harare)

Senior Research Officer in Molecular Biology (Harare)

Genomics Technician (Harare)

Semi-Skilled DPF/Tractor Mechanic (Chipinge)

Department of Clothing and Textile Lectureship Position

Department of Environmental Science and Technology Lectureship Positions x4

Department of Biotechnology – Lectureship Positions x2

Department of Food Science and Technology Lectureship Position

Department of Material Science and Engineering Technology Lectureship Positions x2

Department of Information Technology Lectureship Position

Department of Biology Lectureship Position

Department of Mathematics and Statistics Lecturer Position

Department of Chemistry Lectureship Position

Management Accountant (Harare)

Canteen Cook (Harare)

Canteen Supervisor (Grade 5)

Driver (Mutare)

Strategic Information and Evaluation (SIE) Clerks

Field Officers: SUPPORT-TB

Provincial TB Focal Person (Mutare, Gweru)

Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Manager (Harare)

Workshop Foreman (Harare)

Business Unit Manager (Bulawayo)

Parts Manager (Harare)

Branch Managers (Harare)

Draughtsperson (Norton)

Graduate Trainee – Human Resources (Harare)

Procurement Manager (Harare)

Finance Administrator (Harare)

Artisan Electricians (Chipinge)

Electrician (Harare)

Assistant Motor Bike Mechanic (Harare)

Motor Bike Mechanic (Harare)

Transport Mechanic (Harare)

Registered General Nurse: Fixed Term (Bulawayo)

Front Desk Assistant -Glenview Wellness Clinic (Harare)

2025 Apprenticeship Intake: CFAO

2025 Apprenticeship Training Intake

Exhibitions Officer (Harare)

General Manager (Harare)

Optical Dispensing Assistant

Welder

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor: Accountancy x5

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor: Mathematics x2

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor: Human Capital Management x2

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor: Marketing

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor: Analytical Chemistry

Sales Manager (Harare)

Personal Assistant (Harare)

General Hand (Bulawayo)

Internal Audit Assistant (Harare)

Sales Driver (Bindura)

Dog Handler (Marondera)

Personal Assistant To The Librarian (Marondera)

General Trade Business Development Manager (Harare)

Police in Limpopo Province, South Africa, have arrested two foreign nationals, aged 25 and 31, for possessing illicit Remington Gold cigarettes valued at around R1 million.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that the arrests occurred on Monday. Said Ledwaba:
<blockquote>
Information was reportedly received regarding a white truck with Gauteng province registration, suspected of smuggling cigarettes from Zimbabwe to Gauteng via Northam.
In response, a joint operation was launched, involving Northam SAPS, Koedoeskop Rural Safety, and private security.
</blockquote>
The team identified the truck and made a tactical stop to search it. Said Ledwaba:
<blockquote>
A hidden compartment was found in the trailer, with a false panel concealing 170 boxes of illicit Remington Gold cigarettes with an estimated street value of R1.1 million.
The two foreign national male suspects were immediately arrested. They are expected to appear before Northam Magistrate’s Court soon, facing charges of possessing illicit cigarettes.
</blockquote>
Police said the cigarettes, the truck, and its trailer were impounded.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Two men from Zimbabwe were caught in South Africa with illegal cigarettes worth R1 million. They were in a truck smuggling the cigarettes. The police found hidden compartments in the trailer with lots of illegal cigarettes. The two men were arrested and will go to court. The police took the cigarettes, truck, and trailer. The arrests happened after a joint operation by the police and security. The men are in trouble for having illegal cigarettes.

Two Zimbabweans Arrested With Large Shipment Of Illicit Cigarettes In South Africa

Police have confirmed the arrest of three suspects involved in smuggling second-hand clothes and the death of a fourth man following a shootout in Mutare on Wednesday morning.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 17, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi announced the arrests of Phillimon Matiyashe (32), Tawanda Chafanza (33), and Owen Wenjere (29), as well as the death of Admire Tawanda Sibanda (40) during a shootout with police officers on October 16, 2024, at approximately 5:30 AM. Said Commissioner Nyathi:
<blockquote>
A Police crack team on an anti-smuggling operation acted on received information and intercepted a MAN rigid truck, registration number AFG 7429 along Vumba Road, after Prince of Wales turn off, Mutare.
The truck was loaded with smuggled second-hand clothes and was being escorted by two vehicles, an unregistered silver Toyota Runx and a silver Toyota Mark X, registration number, AFY 1037 driven by the Admire Tawanda Sibanda.
The team flagged down the truck, but the driver sped off.
Another Toyota Runux vehicle, registration number AFH 8368 blocked the way and subsequently, Admire Tawanda Sibanda pulled out a pistol and fired towards the Police resulting in a shootout.
Admire Tawanda Sibanda was shot on the neck and succumbed to the injuries on the way to the hospital.
The Police Mahindra vehicle was shot resulting in two bullet holes on the front left fender.
Phillimon Matiyashe, Tawanda Chafanza and Owen Wenjere were later arrested by the Police after a speed chase.
</blockquote>
Following the chase and subsequent arrests, police recovered 104 bales of second-hand shoes and 138 bales of second-hand clothes from the truck. Added Commissioner Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds the public for providing valuable information and warns smuggling syndicates against engaging in violent confrontations with police officers. Such actions will be met with appropriate response for the law to take its course.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Three men were caught smuggling second-hand clothes, and one man was killed in a shootout with the police. The police stopped a truck filled with smuggled clothes, and the driver tried to escape. Another man in a car blocked the way and shot at the police. He was shot and died. The police arrested the other three men after a chase and found lots of smuggled shoes and clothes. The police warn other smugglers not to fight back or they will face consequences.

Three Smugglers Arrested, One Killed In Shootout - ZRP

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has intensified its efforts to combat the widespread smuggling of goods into the country.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200033487/zimra-goes-after-smugglers">NewsDay</a>, ZIMRA head of corporate communications Francis Chimanda said that despite the ongoing enforcement measures, the tax authority is seeing the continued prevalence of smuggling activities. Said Chimanda:
<blockquote>
Yes, people still resort to smuggling as noted from encounters in enforcement activities conducted by ZIMRA and other law enforcement agents.
The motives for smuggling vary from person to person, but in general, people smuggle goods to evade controls and payment of duty at entry points as well as to avoid paying inland taxes when they sell smuggled commercial goods.
</blockquote>
ZIMRA says smuggling remains a rampant issue, despite the existence of a traveller’s rebate of duty.
As explained by Chimanda, the “traveller’s rebate of duty” is a duty-free allowance that enables travellers to import non-commercial goods up to a value of $200 once a month, without being charged any duty. Added Chimanda:
<blockquote>
Non-commercial goods imported by private importers are charged duty at flat rates of assessments on their value or quantities, in the case of alcoholic beverages, cigarettes and clothing, including footwear.
The rates range from 5% for books to 110% for some alcoholic beverages. Some rates are a flat monetary amount per quantity of goods, while others are a combination, that is a percentage of the value plus a flat monetary amount.
</blockquote>
ZIMRA loses a significant amount of revenue due to smuggling activities. Estimates suggest that Zimbabwe loses up to US$1 billion annually from smuggling along its borders.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIMRA is fighting against many people smuggling goods into Zimbabwe. Even though they are trying to stop it, smuggling is still happening. People smuggle to avoid paying taxes. ZIMRA has a duty-free allowance for travellers bringing in non-commercial goods up to $200. The rates for importing goods range from 5% to 110%. Zimbabwe loses a lot of money, up to $1 billion each year, from smuggling. ZIMRA is working hard to stop this problem.

ZIMRA Steps Up Fight Against Widespread Smuggling

A Spar outlet situated at Five Avenue Shopping Centre in Harare was among the shops raided by officials from the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development on Thursday.
The government launched a crackdown against shops and supermarkets selling counterfeit, expired and smuggled goods that have flooded the markets in the capital, Harare, and other cities across the country.
Zimbabwe has become a haven for smuggled goods, including alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages, which are often sold at below-market prices at shops and on street pavements.
This influx of illicit products has posed a challenge for local manufacturers, who have been voicing their concerns about the unfair competition to the government.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200033431/govt-raids-shops-over-imitations">NewsDay</a> yesterday, senior agricultural economist Simbarashe Masanga said shops should follow proper procedures when bringing goods into the country. Said Masanga:
<blockquote>
So they know that these products require permits, but they are actually doing the delivery. So that’s why we are seizing this flour from Spar Five Avenue.
The permit requirements are just a simple registration with AMA. Then you apply for a plant import permit from Plant Quarantine Services Institute.
Then we also issue a control of goods import permit straight from the Ministry of Agriculture and then you are good to go. And if the quantities are not even limited, you can import as much as you want.
</blockquote>
Masanga said that some of these smuggled products are not even in short supply, but are being illegally imported despite local production of the same goods.
He said the smuggled goods pose unfair competition for legitimate local brands that can easily compete.
Masanga said to address this issue, the authorities have launched a crackdown, raiding shops and supermarkets found selling counterfeit, expired or smuggled products.
He also warned that businesses caught selling these illicit goods will face heavy fines, which the AMA intends to make punitive enough to deter such practices.
The agency plans to expand these enforcement efforts across all shops to “bring sanity into the agricultural marketing space.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government in Zimbabwe raided a Spar supermarket for selling fake, expired, and smuggled goods. Many shops in the country are selling illegal items like alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks at cheap prices, which hurts local businesses. Government officials are cracking down on these shops and warning of heavy fines for those caught. They want to stop this unfair competition and bring order to the market. Everyone should follow the rules for bringing goods into the country to help local businesses thrive.

Government Raids Supermarkets Over Counterfeit And Smuggled Goods

Two South African nationals and two Zimbabweans were arraigned before the Harare Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, facing charges of motor vehicle theft.
The accused include John Leseja Mkonto (37) from Johannesburg, Sibusiso Mpofu (44) from Nkulumane, Bulawayo, Nwabi Maghawe (39) from Nketa 7, Bulawayo, Raymond Tshabalala (29) from Johannesburg, and Pholani Nhliziyo (38) from Ndiweni Village, Chief Ndiweni, Bulawayo.
They were arrested on September 2 at a police roadblock in Featherstone after allegedly smuggling the vehicle from South Africa.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the vehicle in question—a white Toyota Land Cruiser—was stolen in Pretoria, South Africa, on August 28, 2024. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
On the 28th of August 2024, the accused persons stole a white Toyota Land Cruiser in Pretoria, South Africa.
In an attempt to conceal the true identity of the motor vehicle, the accused persons fraudulently manufactured a fake South African Registration book as well as a fake Temporary Import Permit in the name of the first accused person.
On the 2nd of September 2024, the accused persons smuggled the motor vehicle into Zimbabwe intending to go to Harare.
They were intercepted by police officers manning a road block at Featherstone. The first accused person who was the driver, upon request by the police officers, produced the fake documents.
Police Officers discovered that the purported motor vehicle documents did not tally with the particulars on the motor vehicle.
A fake registration number was affixed to the motor vehicle. The motor vehicle registration book was bearing a registration number belonging to a Toyota Hilux.
The accused persons were arrested and the motor vehicle was seized. Investiagtions revealed that the motor vehicle was reported stolen in South Africa on 28 August 2024.
The accused persons were remanded in custody to the 16th of September 2024.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two South Africans and two Zimbabweans were caught smuggling a stolen car from South Africa into Zimbabwe. The car was stolen in Pretoria. The group made fake documents to hide the theft but got caught at a roadblock. The police noticed the documents were fake and the car had a different registration number. The thieves were arrested and the car was taken. They will be in jail until September 16. Don't steal cars, it's wrong!

2 South Africans And 2 Zimbabweans Arrested For Smuggling Stolen Vehicle

Police in Beitbridge have arrested three suspects for allegedly smuggling 10 pistols and Broncleer Syrup through the Beitbridge Border Post.
In a statement, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi named the three suspects as Mehluli Nkomo (35), Brendon Dube (28) and Wellington Ndlovu (34).
He said the suspects were inside a Toyota Quantum vehicle that was pulling a trailer with the dead body of Kudakwashe Saveka from South Africa. Said Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Mehluli Nkomo (35), Brendon Dube (28) and Wellington Ndlovu (34) on 23rd June 2024 at Beitbridge Border Post for smuggling 10 boxed 9mm P.A.K Pistols with empty magazines and 100 x 100 ml Broncleer Syrup.
The suspects were aboard a Toyota Quantum vehicle which was towing a trailer with the dead body of Kudakwashe Saveka from South Africa.
During the vehicle inspection at Light Motor Vehicle Terminal, North Bound, Port Health Inspection Bay, the 10 firearms and 100 X 100ml Broncleer Syrup were found stashed in a box covered with 40 reflector vests.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Smugglers Conceal 10 Firearms In Trailer Carrying Dead Body From South Africa

South African police have seized seven inflatable boats on the Limpopo River bank which they believe have been used to smuggle counterfeit goods between Zimbabwe and South Africa.
<a href="https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2024-05-09-inflatable-boats-seized-at-south-africazimbabwe-border/">TimesLive</a> cited Limpopo police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba as saying the boats were seized by the border policing team at the Beitbridge port of entry.
During a crackdown by a multidisciplinary team on Tuesday, police also arrested 26 suspects for various offences which include illegal mining, possession of illicit cigarettes and border jumping.
The team impounded mining equipment, including tipper trucks, an excavator, jackhammers, iron bars and shovels.
The suspects are expected to appear in various magistrate’s courts.
The Zimbabwe-South Africa border is porous, allowing smugglers to move goods and people. Smugglers have even constructed makeshift wooden bridges to facilitate their operations.
In other cases, smugglers use inflatable boats to transport contraband items across the Limpopo River.
The goods smuggled include cigarettes, explosives, stolen vehicles and groceries.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

7 Inflatable Boats Impounded At Zimbabwe/South Africa Border

Kudzisai Chiweshe (54), from Marondera, was recently arraigned before the Mutare Magistrate’s Court on charges of contravening the Customs and Excise Act after she attempted to smuggle bales of second-hand clothes (mabhero) into the country.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), on 19 March 2024, members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) stationed at Forbes Border Post received a tip-off that there was a Trip Trans bus carrying bales of second-hand clothes.
The Police reacted to the tip-off, stopped the bus and conducted a thorough search. Chiweshe who was a passenger in the bus was found in possession of two bales of second-hand clothing weighing 45kg each.
She failed to account for the clothing leading to her arrest and subsequent court appearance for contravening the Customs and Excise Act.
Chiweshe was sentenced to a fine of US$200 or 90 days imprisonment in default of payment.
The bales were forfeited to the State and handed over to ZIMRA for further management in terms of the Customs and Excise Act.
Zimbabwe banned the importation of second-hand clothes in 2015 to protect the local textile industry and encourage value addition.
However, cities and towns across the country are flooded with them showing that corruption is rampant at the country’s porous borders.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Marondera Woman Fined US$200 For Smuggling "Mabhero"

Zimbabwean and South African security forces have destroyed illegal bridges across the Limpopo River, which serves as the natural border between the two countries and also seized large quantities of smuggled goods in the past three weeks.
On the Zimbabwean side, immigration officials are dealing with child trafficking cases, with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) cracking down on import duty evasion and the smuggling of prohibited goods.
The Assistant Regional Immigration Officer at Beitbridge Canisia Magaya told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-sa-intensify-border-patrols/">State media</a> that between March 26 and April 5, they intercepted 59 illegal immigrants at Beitbridge Border Post. Some of the border jumpers were en route to South Africa while others had crossed into Zimbabwe. Said Magaya:
<blockquote>
We are not relenting in our efforts to minimise irregular migration through the border. Of the 59 intercepted between March 26 and April 5, 28 were boys and there were 31 girls.
In addition, seven cross-border bus operators were fined for facilitating illegal migration. During the same period, we also intercepted 10 undocumented Malawians and three Congolese nationals who have been taken to court for prosecution.
</blockquote>
She said the movement of children from both countries was common during public and school holidays. Added Magaya:
<blockquote>
Those with kids should have requisite documents, for instance, those travelling with guardians should in addition to a valid passport, have a copy of the child’s birth certificate.
</blockquote>
For one parent travelling with the child, an affidavit signed by the non-travelling parent is required, together with copies of the ID/passport of the parent.
Limpopo Provincial Police spokesperson Colonel Malasela Ledwaba said they were conducting a high-density operation dubbed “Vala Umgodi” with the help of other security agents.
The Operation is targetting smugglers moving prohibited and counterfeit goods into or out of South Africa.
Col Ledwaba said the smugglers in some instances were using donkey-pulled carts or wood rafts and illegal bridges made from logs to move contraband.
He revealed that between Saturday and Sunday, they arrested 25 people for smuggling and seized goods worth thousands of rands along the Limpopo River.
Col Ledwaba said they have arrested a total number of 23 foreign nationals for contravention of immigration laws.
South African police also discovered abandoned mbanje worth thousands of rands weighing about 9,5kg while they were patrolling the borderline.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zim, SA Authorities Destroy Illegal Limpopo Bridges

Despite the vigilant presence of numerous security officials, a suspected drug dealer intercepted at Beitbridge Border Post managed to evade capture after being found with marijuana and prohibited cough syrups.
The <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200025378/drug-smuggler-walks-away-from-police">Southern Eye</a> reports that Zimbabwe’s security officials, infamous for soliciting bribes from ordinary travellers, cross-border transporters, bus operators, and shipping agents, have been unable to explain the suspect’s disappearance.
This incident occurred last Thursday, and certain stakeholders speculate that the suspect may have bribed the security officers to regain his freedom.
The acting commanding officer of Beitbridge police district Superintendent Philisani Ndebele told <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200025378/drug-smuggler-walks-away-from-police">Southern Eye</a> last week that “The driver disappeared from the scene”.
However, some stakeholders in Beitbridge said the incident exposed widespread corruption involving police officers, customs and excise officers, private security guards and officers from the President’s Department at the border post. One Beitbridge resident was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
There are two explanations, that the officers are at the border for something else rather than the country’s security or they colluded with the suspect.
Ask anyone, there is a heavy presence of security officers from different departments whose sole purpose is to check and arrest smuggling and illegal movement of people across the border. How do you explain that a suspect simply walks away?
</blockquote>
Eyewitnesses told Southern Eye that the vehicle, a Toyota Quantum minibus headed for Bulawayo, was stopped for a routine check-up in the “Malume” section of the border which handles small-scale cross-border transporters.
The keen noses of sniffer dogs exposed the suspect, prompting customs and excise officials to focus on inspecting the vehicle’s trailer. Simultaneously, the driver and his crew made a hasty exit.
Inside the vehicle, authorities discovered prohibited Benylin cough syrups containing codeine, which are illicitly traded on the drug market. Additionally, the vehicle carried approximately 24 kilogrammes of mbanje.
Investigations by Southern Eye established that the same vehicle was intercepted recently with at least 74 kilogrammes of dagga. Said an eyewitness:
<blockquote>
He simply walked away after realising something was wrong. Proper handling of the case should have had the driver secured and a search of his vehicle done in his presence.
How do officials explain his disappearance when they are employed to secure such people? What is their purpose?
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) later issued a statement confirming the interception of the contraband but did not mention any arrests.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Drug Smuggler Walks Away From Police

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) intercepted a South Africa-registered vehicle carrying 48kg of cannabis and a large quantity of the controlled Benylin Cough Syrup on Wednesday, April 03, in Beitbridge.
In a statement, the ZRP said the contraband was hidden in a false compartment of the Toyota Quantum trailer. Police said:
<blockquote>
On 03/04/24, Police acted on received information and recovered 2 668 x 100 mls Benylin Cough Syrup and 48 kilogrammes of loose dagga which were hidden in a false compartment of the Toyota Quantum trailer.
</blockquote>
In another development, police officers and officials from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), recovered 20 kilogrammes of dagga hidden in a Toyota Quantum vehicle at the Malume parking lot, Beitbridge Border Post on Sunday.
However, one of the vehicle’s crew, Michael Mkhokheli fled from the scene leaving his passport in the car. Said the Police:
<blockquote>
On 31/03/24, Police in Beitbridge in conjunction with ZIMRA officials recovered 20 kilogrammes of dagga, with a street value of ZWL$ 20 000 000, which was hidden in a Toyota Quantum vehicle at Malume parking lot, Beitbridge Border Post. One of the vehicle’s crew, Michael Mkhokheli fled from the scene leaving his passport in the car.
</blockquote>
Drug and substance abuse is a serious problem in Zimbabwe, particularly among the youth population. Commonly abused substances include alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and non-medicinal use of controlled medicines.
Shockingly, approximately 60% of patients admitted to mental health institutions suffer from drug-related issues. Drug dealers even exploit young street children to sell and distribute drugs in Harare.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZRP Intercept Large Mbanje, Cough Syrup Contraband At Beitbridge

Police in Matabeleland South Province have arrested four men in Plumtree on allegations of smuggling three motor vehicles through an undesignated point of entry at Nswazi area, Madlambuzi in Bulilima.
The four are Peter Ndlovu (20), David Mazararire (22), Ndumiso Mudenda (36) and Norman Farai Nhunge (31) and were arrested at various points along Bulawayo- Plumtree road.
In a statement, Police said Ndlovu and his accomplices were intercepted at the 17-kilometre peg along the Bulawayo-Plumtree road highway. Police said:
<blockquote>
Police in Plumtree who were on anti-smuggling motorised patrol arrested David Mazararire (22), Ndumiso Mudenda (36), Norman Farai Nhunge (31) and Peter Ndlovu (20) for smuggling two Honda Fit vehicles and a Toyota Vitz vehicle through an undesignated point of entry at Nswazi area, Madlambuzi.
David Mazararire and Dumiso Mudenda were intercepted at the 43-kilometre peg along Bulawayo-Plumtree road while driving a Honda Fit vehicle with foreign number plates, while Norman Farai Nhunge was intercepted at the 17-kilometre peg along the same road, whilst driving a Toyota Vitz vehicle with foreign number plates. Peter Ndlovu was intercepted at the 17-kilometre peg along Bulawayo-Plumtree Road whilst driving a Honda Fit vehicle.
</blockquote>
The police said the suspects had no Temporary Import Permits and vehicle registration books for the vehicles.
Smuggling of vehicles across Zimbabwe’s southern and western borders is rampant with some of the vehicles having been hijacked in South Africa.
South African Police Service’s crime statistics reveal that between 1 April and 30 June 2023, 5 488 ars were hijacked.
Some of the hijacked cars find their way to Zimbabwe where they are sold to unsuspecting members of the public.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Four Men Arrested For Smuggling Honda Fit, Toyota Vitz Vehicles

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), has reportedly restored the 100% foreign currency payments to small-scale gold miners, who produce 62% of the country’s gold.
This comes after the RBZ announced late last year that all economic sectors were subject to a 75% uniform forex retention. The central bank said at the time:
<blockquote>
With effect from 1 November 2023, foreign currency retentions on exports shall be standardised at the level of 75% across all sectors of the economy and all special dispensations granted to some sectors of the economy shall be removed.
</blockquote>
Small-scale miners then pressured the RBZ to rescind the policy and resume paying 100% in foreign exchange.
Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) president Henrietta Rushwaya confirmed the latest development to <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/rbz-in-forex-retention-u-turn/">Business Times</a>. She said:
<blockquote>
Small-scale miners have been getting a 100% forex retention threshold all year round in 2023 and we didn’t suffer retention challenges.
There was an impasse for a week but the authorities were quick to resolve it.
</blockquote>
The Gold Miners Association of Zimbabwe CEO, Irvine Chinyenze said the 75% forex retention was going to promote the illicit flow of gold out of the country. He told Business Times:
<blockquote>
There was a danger that smuggling was going to be rampant as miners were going to look for more lucrative markets where they get value for money rather than lose value in the process.
This was going to reduce production at an alarming rate as miners were going to diversify to other sectors that wholly give earnings in US$.
Though we can’t quantify criminality, the country was going to lose over US$2bn in revenues if the current policy direction was not going to be reversed.
This was going to see a great deal of forex being externalised beyond the country’s borders thereby losing massive revenues along the way.
This was going to create an influx of gold mafia gangs as the authorities created a thriving environment for them to smuggle and externalise United States dollars through illicit deals.
</blockquote>
In 2020, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe said that Zimbabwe was losing US$100 million worth of gold every month through international smuggling rings.
In 2023, Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit (I-Unit) claimed that Zimbabwe’s government was using smuggling cartels to sell gold worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

RBZ Yields To Small-scale Gold Miners' Demand

A 38-year-old Zimbabwean national was arrested in South Africa on Sunday evening during an intelligence-driven operation where a stolen Toyota RAV4 vehicle was recovered from him in Limpopo Province.
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/crime-and-courts/zimbabwean-man-arrested-after-toyota-rav4-stolen-in-gauteng-recovered-in-limpopo-e413a535-949d-4840-ba6e-db1d06541cc2">IOL </a>reported Mpumalanga provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, as saying the vehicle was reported stolen at Boschkop, in the Gauteng Province. He said:
<blockquote>
A report indicates that the information regarding a suspicious vehicle was provided by the national crime intelligence structure of the SA Police Service, and the team to carry out the operation consisted of members from the Middelburg flying squad, Sekhukhune flying squad, Tracker Connect, Modimolle flying squad, and Roedtan SAPS.
</blockquote>
The teams followed up on the details of the suspicious vehicle, leading the team to N11 Road in the Roedtan area in Limpopo, where a green Toyota RAV4 with one occupant was intercepted. Said Mohlala:
<blockquote>
It is said that the said car was coming from R25 Road in Bronkhorstspruit, and it was fitted with Gauteng registration number plates.
</blockquote>
On further investigation, it was discovered that the registration plates fitted to the Toyota RAV4 were cloned. Added Mohlala:
<blockquote>
The members also unearthed that the vehicle was reported stolen at Boschkop, in the Gauteng province, this month hence the driver was arrested and charged for possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle.
</blockquote>
According to a report by the South African Police Service (SAPS), intelligence information indicates that daily between three (3) and (6) vehicles cross the Limpopo River and are smuggled into Zimbabwe
The syndicate make use of smugglers along the river. The smugglers do not belong to the syndicate but however, drive the vehicles across the river and once the vehicles have crossed the other person will receive the vehicle in Zimbabwe for further processing
The smugglers, who stay around the villages along the Limpopo River, allegedly charge between R5000.00 and R15 000 per vehicle to assist in smuggling.
The stolen vehicles are sold in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Man Arrested In SA For Driving Stolen Toyota RAV4  Vehicle

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a 28-year-old man for smuggling cigarettes using a gas tanker truck.
In a statement issued this Tuesday, 21 November, ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that the suspect Hillary Makopa, was arrested on Saturday at Beitbridge Border Post. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
ARREST OF A SUSPECT FOR SMUGGLING CIGARETTES AT BEITBRIDGE BORDER POST
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Hillary Makopa (28) for smuggling cigarettes using a gas tanker truck on 18th November 2023 at Beitbridge Border Post.
The suspect was driving the truck which was scanned at the export point and indicated that the tanker, which had been declared empty, was actually loaded with boxes of cigarettes.
The contraband comprising, 585 (50 x 10x 20) boxes and 256 (25 x 10x 20) of Remington Gold cigarettes was recovered from the tanker on 19th November 2023.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified operations targeting syndicates involved in cross-border crimes at all ports of entry and exit in the country.
The Police therefore categorically state that cigarette smuggling syndicates will be arrested without fear or favour.
We warn bus operators, truck drivers, omalayitsha, clearing agents or any other person who initiates acts of smuggling that they are equally liable and will be arrested.
The public is encouraged to report all incidents of smuggling to ZRP National Complaints Desk on 0242 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712800197 or any nearest Police Station, for swift action to be taken by authorities.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Police Intercept Gas Tanker Truck Loaded With Smuggled Cigarettes

A 35-year-old South African man, Shane Mthombeni, has been convicted and sentenced to six years in jail for attempting to smuggle a hijacked silver Toyota Fortuner to Zimbabwe.
He appeared at the regional court in Mokopane, in Limpopo.
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/six-years-in-jail-south-african-man-sentenced-for-attempting-to-smuggle-stolen-toyota-fortuner-to-zimbabwe-0bbfe831-228b-48fb-b99d-61359d4f1003">IOL</a> reported Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, provincial police spokesperson in Limpopo, as saying Mthombeni was sentenced to six years of direct imprisonment, without the option to pay a fine. Said Mashaba:
<blockquote>
The court heard that the South African citizen, Shane Mthombeni was intercepted by police while driving a silver motor vehicle, a Toyota Fortuner at Nyl Toll Plaza along the N1 Highway on Monday, October 30.
</blockquote>
Mashaba said members of the Limpopo police’s provincial tracking team arrested Mthombeni while driving a hijacked Toyota Fortuner along the N1 freeway towards the Beitbridge border post to Zimbabwe. Said Mashaba:
<blockquote>
The team, at the time, had reliable information which made them have reason to believe that the vehicle would be driving from Gauteng province, along the N1 highway to Beitbridge port of entry to be smuggled to Zimbabwe.
A case of possession of suspected stolen motor vehicle was immediately opened against the accused and it was transferred to the vehicle investigation unit for further handling.
</blockquote>
After finding him guilty, the court in Limpopo also declared Mthombeni unfit to possess a firearm, reported IOL.
Povincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe welcomed the sentence imposed by the court adding that the “conviction and the sentence will serve as a deterrent to would-be car thieves”.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South African Man Jailed Six Years For Attempting To Smuggle Stolen Toyota Fortuner To Zimbabwe

A 34-year-old Zimbabwean national, Loaded Maguta, who was arrested in South Africa last month for possession of a stolen vehicle, a Toyota Fortuner, will appear at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court again this week where his bail application will be considered.
South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, told <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/crime-and-courts/more-nights-in-jail-for-man-arrested-trying-to-smuggle-stolen-toyota-fortuner-to-zimbabwe-3757ab58-50cd-462f-87cd-ead5e242ea37">IOL</a> that Maguta appeared in court last week, and he was remanded in custody until Thursday, 09 November. He said:
<blockquote>
The suspect, Loaded Maguta appeared on November 2, for formal bail, he is remanded in police custody until November 9, for further police investigations.
</blockquote>
The Toyota Fortuner sport utility vehicle, which was recovered during Maguta’s arrest, was reported stolen in Gauteng.
Maguta was arrested near the Beitbridge border post. He has been linked to a vehicle smuggling syndicate operating between Gauteng and Limpopo provinces.
The Zimbabwean national was nabbed after a high-speed chase with SAPS from the Kuschke Agriculture School until the Toyota Fortuner came to a stop along the R101 Road.
Maguta was reportedly driving without a valid driving licence, and it was also established that he was in South Africa illegally.
He is now facing charges including breaching immigration laws, possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle, and driving a motor vehicle without a valid driving licence.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Man (34) Arrested In South Africa Trying To Smuggle Stolen Toyota Fortuner Remanded In Custody

South Africa on Monday, 12 June, began destroying 20 million illicit cigarettes smuggled into the country through its porous border with neighbouring Zimbabwe.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) said that the contraband of 20 million cigarettes is valued at more than US$2.3 million.
The cigarettes were smuggled into the country between February and May this year and were seized over several operations. SARS said:
<blockquote>
The destruction of the illicit and smuggled cigarettes (at the Beitbridge border post) is likely to last a few days…
Illicit trade robs the government of much-needed revenue and destroys industries, exacerbating unemployment, poverty and inequality.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/south-africa-destroys-20-million-cigarettes-smuggled-in-from-zimbabwe-breaking-12-june-2023/">The South African</a> reported that in January, British American Tobacco South Africa (BATSA), said that it had been forced to cut around a third of its workforce since 2020 due to the rising illicit tobacco trade.
BATSA estimated that “illicit cigarette trade accounts for up to 70 percent of South Africa’s total cigarette market”.
The ban on tobacco sales by the South African Government during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 has been blamed for the rise in the illicit cigarette trade.
Last month, South African Police Services’ Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), arrested a driver for smuggling more than 500 cartons of illicit cigarettes.
The cigarettes were being transported in a gas tanker truck on its way to the central town of Potchefstroom.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South Africa Destroys 20 Million Cigarettes Smuggled In From Zimbabwe

International English-language news channel, Al Jazeera, has postponed the airing of a documentary about alleged corruption and money laundering by Zimbabwean politicians and their associates.
The filming of the four-part documentary was scheduled to start this Thursday at 12 PM Central African Time.
It has since emerged that the film’s broadcast has not happened and this sparked debate on social media, with some commentators speculating that the Qatari-based broadcaster has been paid to “kill the story”.
However, Zimbabwean award-winning journalist and filmmaker Hopewell Chin’ono said Al Jazeera cannot be bought. <a href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1631224975557373953?s=20">He tweeted</a>:
<blockquote>
I can tell you that Al Jazeera can’t be bought! They have postponed, not shelved their film’s broadcast.
The 4 Zimbabwe films were made by [Al Jazeera Investigations], which is independent of the Al Jaz channel.
An insider said they are sorting out a technical issue.
</blockquote>
A snippet of the documentary featuring ZANU PF affiliate and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s appointed ambassador at large, Uebert Angel has gone viral on social media.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/govt-admits-to-corruption-says-making-efforts-to-arrest-individuals-involved/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Angel, a preacher of the prosperity gospel, was dragged to court to answer charges of fraud involving a luxury vehicle worth US$300 000 in 2015.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Al Jazeera Investigations On Zimbabwe Broadcast Postponed Due To "A Technical Issue"

The government has admitted that there is rampant corruption, smuggling of minerals, and money laundering in the country.
The Permanent Secretary of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Ndavaningi Mangwana, said the government is committed to dealing with the vices.
He was responding to reports that Al Jazeera is set to expose corrupt Zimbabwean politicians and their associates in a documentary set to be aired this March. <a href="https://twitter.com/nickmangwana/status/1630798718877282305">Tweeted Mangwana</a>:
<blockquote>
Facts:-Is there corruption in Zimbabwe? Yes. -Is there smuggling of minerals and forex out of the country? Yes -Is there money laundering in Zimbabwe? Yes (including by NGOs) -Is the Government fully committed to getting rid of all the above ills? That’s a fact.
</blockquote>
According to Zimbabwean award-winning journalist and filmmaker Hopewell Chin’ono, filming of the Al Jazeera documentary started two years ago and chronicles plundering and money laundering in the country.
Chin’ono said the film producers have shown the films to a select group of corruption experts and journalists to give their comments before the documentary is broadcasted.
A snippet of the documentary featuring ZANU PF affiliate and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s appointed ambassador at large, Uebert Angel has gone viral on social media.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/govt-admits-to-corruption-says-making-efforts-to-arrest-individuals-involved/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Angel, a preacher of the prosperity gospel, was dragged to court to answer charges of fraud involving a luxury vehicle worth US$300 000 in 2015.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Govt Admits To Corruption, Smuggling And Money Laundering

The South African Police Service (SAPS) on Thursday seized five vehicles and cigarettes worth more than R400 000 and arrested 11 of the suspected Zimbabwean smugglers.
The smuggling convoys had 10 vehicles in total and five of the vehicles escaped.
Following a high-speed car chase with the help of a farm watch, SAPS officers nabbed seized five vehicles and arrested 11 suspects.
Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo confirmed the arrests. He said:
<blockquote>
The intensification of intelligence-driven operations to prevent the smuggling of illicit cigarettes into the country led to the arrest of 11 suspects, the seizure of illicit cigarettes and five of the 10 motor vehicles that were transporting them along the Piesanghoek road in the early hours of Thursday, 9 February 2023.
Members of the Limpopo tracking team and Capricorn highway patrol operationalised information received about 10 motor vehicles which were smuggling illicit cigarettes from Zimbabwe to South Africa.
The vehicles were driven in a convoy on the N1 road from Musina in the direction of Louis Trichardt.
</blockquote>
According to Brigadier Mojapelo, the security team caught up with them along the Piesanghoek Road where they had detoured to avoid police.
When they saw the police, the Zimbabweans sped off and a high-speed chase ensued.
Five vehicles were then cornered with the help of members of the Louis Trichardt Farm Watch but the other five managed to escape. Said Brig Mojapelo:
<blockquote>
The cornered group tried to engage in a fistfight with Farm Watch members but they were ultimately subdued and apprehended. The five vehicles were found loaded with cigarettes.
</blockquote>
All 11 suspects were found to be undocumented Zimbabweans.
Brig Mojapelo said police had seized two BMWs, a Ford Territory, a Nissan Pathfinder, and an Audi A4 and 31 crate-boxes and 407 packs of cigarettes at an estimated value of R426 640.
The suspects, aged between 24 and 43, are expected to appear before a Louis Trichardt magistrate soon charged with dealing with and possession of illicit cigarettes, contravention of the Immigration Act and resisting arrest.
The drivers will also be charged with reckless and negligent driving and driving a motor vehicle without a driving licence.

SA Police Intercept 10-car Convoy Delivering Illicit Cigarettes From Zimbabwe

Zimbabweans are smuggling explosives to South Africa for use in blowing up automated teller machines (ATMs) in the neighbouring country.
This was said by Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo during a high-level National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) steering committee meeting held in Harare on Thursday. She said:
<blockquote>
Recently explosives were also smuggled from Zimbabwe to South Africa and during (a recent) meeting I was made to understand that the explosives were used to hit ATMs (automated teller machines) in South Africa. We cannot show such a lack of humanity as Zimbabweans.
</blockquote>
Matanda-Moyo said she went to South Africa recently where she met officials from that country’s police service and the special investigations unit.
She said it was perplexing that Zimbabweans were being caught with contraband in South Africa. Said Matanda-Moyo:
<blockquote>
The South African authorities are always arresting Zimbabweans who would have crossed the borders with smuggled goods.
How is that happening? Why are they not caught on the Zimbabwean side? We really need to introspect.
The porosity of our borders is also causing the country to lose resources. 
Recently, our gold was forfeited in South Africa. Cigarettes are also being forfeited.
</blockquote>
The NACS steering committee is composed of key ministries such as the Finance, Home Affairs, Justice and government institutions such as ZACC, the National Prosecuting Authority, Zimbabwe Republic Police, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit, Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, Auditor-General and Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, among others. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200004411/explosives-smuggling-rife-zacc">NewsDay</a>

Zimbabweans Smuggling Explosives To South Africa - ZACC

A South African court has ordered the seizure of 23 pieces of gold, worth R9 million, that were smuggled by a Zimbabwean man, Tashinga Nyasha Masinire, into the neigbhouring country last year.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/10/full-text-gold-smuggler-resigned-as-rushwayas-driver/">FULL TEXT: Gold Smuggler Had Resigned As Rushwaya’s Driver</a></li>
</ul>
The High Court in Joburg granted a final forfeiture order for the contraband which Masinire attempted to smuggle through O.R. Tambo International Airport. Said Gauteng Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha:
<blockquote>
Nyasha was arrested by members of the Hawks’ serious organised crime with the assistance of customs officials at OR Tambo International (ORTIA) after he landed from neighbouring Zimbabwe.
He consequently appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court facing charges of illegally dealing with precious metals.
The court granted him R100 000 bail, and he has been in attendance since. His next appearance is scheduled for later this year.
</blockquote>
In May, Hawks national spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Philani Nkwalase said Masinire’s release on bail came with strict conditions. Said Nkwalase:
<blockquote>
Some of the conditions include that he should not leave South Africa, and he also has to report to the nearest police station at least three times per week.
</blockquote>
Masinire was arrested shortly after landing at OR Tambo International Airport.
The SA Revenue Service found 23 pieces of gold in Masinire’s luggage after he was requested to scan it at the international arrivals’ customs section. Added Nkwalase:
<blockquote>
He allegedly failed to declare any items and did not have any permits or licences to be in possession or transport gold, and the Hawks were called to effect the arrest.
</blockquote>
Masinire is a former driver of Zimbabwe Miners Federation President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Henrietta_Rushwaya">Henrietta Rushwaya </a>who was also arrested at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport while attempting to smuggle gold. | <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/crime-and-courts/south-africa-officially-seizes-r9-million-gold-from-zimbabwean-man-who-attempted-to-smuggle-it-24a6db93-a425-4d7b-8d9f-8869856b66b5">IOL</a>

South Africa Officially Seizes 23 Pieces Of Gold From Henritta Rushwaya's Former Driver

A soldier based in Beitbridge narrowly cheated death after he was shot eight times by vehicle smugglers along the Limpopo River last week.
The soldier was part of a security team deployed to curb cross-border crime in the border town.
The smugglers opened fire after they were cornered at an undesignated crossing point along the Limpopo River.
ZRP Officer Commanding Beitbridge District Chief Superintendent Tichaona Nyongo confirmed the incident but referred further questions to the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA). He said:
<blockquote>
He was on deployment and no one else was injured. As the norm, you can get detailed facts from the army through their national spokesperson.
</blockquote>
ZNA spokesperson Alphios Makotore said he would issue a statement next week.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002016/cheeky-vehicle-smugglers-shoot-zim-soldier">NewsDay</a> reported sources at Beitbridge District Hospital as saying the soldier sustained several bullet wounds and was immediately transferred to Gwanda en route to Bulawayo.

Zim Soldier Shot By Vehicle Smugglers In Beitbridge

Illicit drug smugglers are using Manicaland Province as a conduit and destination for their contraband resulting in an upsurge in local consumption and peddling of narcotics.
Drugs commonly abused in local hotspots include cocaine, morphine, heroin, ecstasy, cannabis, broncleer (bronco), mandrax, hashish and crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as mutoriro, dombo or guka, reported <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/43pc-of-scholars-have-access-to-drugs/">The Manica Post.</a>
Marijuana is grown locally but the illicit drug is also being smuggled from Mozambique and Malawi while Cocaine, heroin and other hard drugs are smuggled from South Africa, Latin America and Afghanistan.
Data from the Anti-Drug Abuse Forum (ADAF) and the police’s Drugs and Narcotics Unit has revealed that a high number of drug abusers are mostly males between the ages of 11 and 40 years.
The illicit drugs are distributed in the streets, bars, homes, schools and workplaces with women constituting the bulk of smugglers.
A drug peddler who spoke to The Manica Post on condition of anonymity said he gets supplies from Mbare and South Africa. He said:
<blockquote>
I sell it for between US$15 and US$20 per gram, depending on the location, availability and the customer.
It is in high demand in surrounding illegal mining areas because of its ability to keep the illegal panners high and hyper-active for long hours. We get supplies from drug lords in Mbare and South Africa.
</blockquote>
Detective Assistant Inspector Ndiudzei Mugawa from the Drugs and Narcotics Unit said:
<blockquote>
We arrest an average of 30 peddlers monthly and only last week we arrested two women who had cocaine in Yeovil, Mutare.
Women are well travelled and constitute the bulk of smugglers in the province.
Manicaland is being used both as a conduit and a destination for smuggled illicit drugs.
Its proximity to the long porous border with Mozambique has resulted in smugglers using so many entry points to smuggle illicit drugs into the country.
</blockquote>
Detective Assistant Inspector Mugawa added that it is difficult for the police to infiltrate drug cartels. He said:
<blockquote>
Drug trafficking is controlled predominantly by well-connected people, most of whom are behind the heroin and cocaine entering the country.
With drugs, it is about possession and usage, and sometimes we fail to arrest the suspects due to conspiracy of silence.
Unlike other offences, drug abuse usually has no complainants and it is difficult to penetrate when you do not have a mole inside the cartel.
</blockquote>

"Manicaland A Conduit For Smuggled Illicit Drugs"

Some newly imported Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) buses were last week found loaded with contraband at Beitbridge Border Post, with the drivers of the buses fined over $700 000 for attempting to smuggle goods.
The smuggling was discovered by Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) officers who directed coaches with the undeclared goods to a holding parking bay for investigations.
A ZIMRA officer who declined to be named told NewsDay the buses were only released after the drivers paid the duty and the penalty. Said the official:
<blockquote>
I am not sure if it was planned or not, but when searched, it was found these buses had undeclared goods and were subsequently held.
The buses were released after duty and a 100% penalty was paid. The amount was about $360 000 duty and the fine was a similar amount.
Units without smuggled goods were released immediately and driven directly out of the border.
</blockquote>
About half the buses imported last week were parked in a bay where the ZIMRA’s anti-smuggling unit searches vehicles suspected of carrying contraband.
NewsDay reported that neither ZIMRA nor the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) were reachable for comment yesterday.
The buses were later commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last week on Thursday at ZUPCO head office in Belvedere, Harare.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/new-zupco-buses-caught-smuggling/">NewsDay</a></h4>

ZIMRA 'Impounds' New ZUPCO Buses Over Smuggling

Police in Bulawayo on Friday impounded a South African truck carrying smuggled groceries worth more than R200 000.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednego Ncube said the Zambia-bound truck was intercepted along the Bulawayo-Harare Road near Zuva garage.
The driver of the vehicle, Phila Vilakazi, was spotted by police officers who were on patrol while trying to offload the goods into another truck heading to Kwekwe.
Insp Ncube said Vilakazi indicated that he was from South Africa going to Zambia but he did not have any papers proving that the groceries put on top of what he was intending to take to Zambia had been cleared.
Some members of the public came to the scene and claimed to be owners of the groceries and tried to bribe the police officers. Said Insp Ncube:
<blockquote>They also attempted to bribe police officers who turned them down. One of the truck drivers attempted to run away and only appeared this morning to claim his vehicle as both cars were taken to Ross Camp.
We will continue doing our best to arrest anyone found with goods that are not declared as they are not welcome into the country.
We encourage members of the public to continue cooperating and to report any suspicious transactions.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/goods-smuggled-from-sa-impounded/">The Herald</a></h4>

Groceries Smuggled From South Africa Impounded

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) says it will now seize vehicles found transporting smuggled goods.
ZIMRA’s first quarter (Q1) 2021 report showed a decline in customs and excise duty as some traders opted to smuggle goods.
According to the report by ZIMRA Vice Board Chairperson Josephine Matambo, customs duty contributed 7.07 % and excise duty 12.51%. ZIMRA said:
<blockquote>Restrictions on the movement of vehicular and human traffic during the lockdown period created some risk to revenue collection as travellers opted to use undesignated ports of entry going in and out of the country.
Furthermore, the fight against corruption has been elevated to higher levels as Zimra seeks to seize and auction vehicles that are found transporting smuggled goods.</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Lawyer, Rumbidzai Venge said ZIMRA cannot just seize vehicles without following due procedure. Said Venge:
<blockquote>Vehicles cannot just be forfeited without following due procedure. At the moment, Section 172 of the Customs Duty and Excise Act speaks to allowing anyone caught in this position, an opportunity to either pay the duty or explain why there was no payment.</blockquote>
The ZIMRA report showed that the major contributors to net revenue collections for the taxman were companies contributing 19.98%, individuals 17.89% and VAT on local sales 13.48%.
This, according to ZIMRA Acting Commissioner General Rameck Masaira, is an indication that notwithstanding the pandemic the economy has largely remained robust. He said:
<blockquote>It has resulted in an improved performance in as far as tax collection is concerned</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://ztn.co.zw/stream/2021/05/zimra-to-seize-vehicles-transporting-smuggled-goods/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">ZTN</a></h4>

ZIMRA To Seize Vehicles Transporting Smuggled Goods

The closure of borders in some parts of Africa is reportedly facilitating illegal migration in between borders, New Zimbabwe reports. This was reportedly contained in a report that was compiled by Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime in August which stated that South Africa was the most desired destination for the irregular immigrants.
The report titled: Smuggling in the time of Covid-19: The impact of the pandemic on human human-smuggling dynamics and migrant protection risks states that:
<blockquote>South Africa has closed the majority of border points and deployed the military to patrol its borders. It has also launched (under emergency COVID-19 regulations) the construction of a new fence between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Although the fence was in part driven by a need to contain the coronavirus, it uses funds that critics argue would be better spent on the country’s chronically underfunded health systems. Further, it is also likely to drive those who need to cross this heavily trodden border into irregular movemen
For smugglers, particularly those for whom smuggling is the only available livelihood, there are significant financial incentives to continue operating.
However, smuggling operations during Covid-19 need to avoid not only the traditional targets of law enforcement and border officials, but also bypass additional travel restrictions and evade local communities and criminal networks issuing edicts prohibiting travel.
Smugglers moving further underground to evade detection have been repeatedly tracked to take riskier routes or use more dangerous transport mechanics, such as sealed lorry containers, or ever smaller boats, with catastrophic consequences for migrant safety.
According to the study, the single largest human smuggling case was uncovered by authorities in Mozambique in March, when 78 Ethiopian migrants destined for South Africa were found crammed into a container of goods. A total of 64 migrants had already died after having suffocated.
On 31 March 2020, Mozambique joined a growing number of countries across the world responding to Covid-19 by closing its borders to foreigners. Goods were still permitted to cross, but the non-essential movement of people was prohibited,” the study report says.
Prior to the full border closure, the Mozambican government had imposed strict border controls to prevent any unnecessary movement of people. On 24 March, 78 Ethiopian migrants were crammed into the container of a goods lorry by smugglers attempting to move them into Mozambique across the northern border with Malawi.
Alerted by noises from inside the container, Mozambican immigration inspectors opened it and found the dead bodies of 64 migrants, along with 14 survivors.
It is believed that the migrants and refugees were being smuggled along the popular southern route towards South Africa. All survivors were tested for Covid19 by the authorities before being detained.
This incident is a grim reminder of the horrendous risks faced by migrants concealed in containers, a method that smugglers around the world have turned to as risks of detection increase.
As noted in issue of the Global Initiative’s East and Southern Africa Risk Bulletin, this tragedy echoes the reports of mounting migrant fatalities across the Sahel, North Africa and Europe.
The incident may be only the first warning sign of the greater risks migrants are prepared to take to overcome border restrictions imposed during Covid-19, and the extreme danger they face in doing so.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/covid-19-travel-ban-opens-avenues-for-human-smuggling/">New Zimbabwe</a>

Human Smuggling Cases Surge As Borders Remain Closed - Report

Leader and founder of Jesus Revelation Ministries, Apostle <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Talent_Chiwenga" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Talent Farai Chiwenga</a> appeared before a Mutare magistrate on Tuesday facing smuggling charges.
Chiwenga (34) was arrested by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Revenue_Authority" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA)</a> officials after he allegedly failed to declare imported goods at the Forbes border post.
He was remanded out of custody on a $400 bail and he will appear in court again on March 21.
The controversial anti-establishment cleric appeared in court in the company of bouncers and scores of church congregants.
On December 21, 2019, Chiwenga allegedly passed through Forbes border post on his way from Mozambique in the company of Darlington Moyo and Lovemore Kanyuru.
ZIMRA claimed that Chiwenga deliberately avoided declaring teargas ejectors, two-way communication radios, solar battery chargers, among other goods which were in his possession.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/apostle-chiwenga-in-court-for-smuggling-goods-at-forbes-border-post/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Smuggling Latest News

Latest Jobs