By Ephraim Munhuwei and Kudzai Mkono
In a significant development on May 22, 2024, the Mwenezi Police Service, under the leadership of _Chief Inspector Solomon Mushava_, achieved a major milestone in the fight against drug trafficking by pressing charges against three individuals for the possession of dagga under Section 157 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 09:23.
Yolanda Nyembesi, 30, from Mvuma; Kabaya Chester, 34, from Glenorah, Harare; and John Chinyamakobva, 32, from Southlea Park were apprehended during a routine roadblock operation.
Chief Inspector Solomon Mushava confirmed that, “at around 0100 hours, a team of officers from ZRP Mwenezi, conducting a night operation, intercepted an unregistered Nissan truck at the 177 km mark along the Beitbridge-Masvingo road. The vehicle, owned by Albert Makuvise of Southlea Park, Harare, was transporting passengers.
“Upon searching the truck, officers uncovered three monarch bags filled with dagga. Yolanda Nyembesi was in possession of two buckets of prepared dagga weighing 4.322 kg, Kabaya Chester had five buckets weighing 11.412 kg, and John Chinyamakobva also had five buckets weighing 10.772 kg”, said Inspector Mushava.
The suspects were promptly arrested and presented in court on May 23, 2024, where they were remanded in custody until May 30, 2024, pending legal representation.
Dagga, commonly known as Skanki, often finds its way into Zimbabwe through illicit crossings at Beitbridge from Swaziland. There is an urgent need for surprise crackdowns, particularly at night, targeting vehicles arriving from Beitbridge. The dagga is typically concealed in cardboard and mixed with groceries to evade detection. Swift handling of such cases is essential, as many suspects provide false addresses and abscond once released on bail.
In a previous incident on May 16, 2024, Mwenezi Police intercepted a cross-border bus at the 143 km mark along the Masvingo-Beitbridge road. Janet Mutarisi, 39, was found with 42 kg of dagga hidden in two boxes under the bus trailer’s tent. Officers conducted a thorough search, discovered the concealed dagga, and promptly arrested Mutarisi.
These successful operations underscore the effectiveness of the Mwenezi Police Service in combating drug trafficking, thwarting the influx of large quantities of illegal substances into the community, and showcasing law enforcement’s unwavering commitment to public safety, especially in intercepting drugs from Beitbridge.
In related news, Minister of Defense and ZANU (PF) Chairman Cde. O. Muchinguri-Kashiri, who also chairs the National Committee on Drugs and Substance Abuse Policy, announced the cabinet’s endorsement of a National Action Plan for Drugs and Substance Abuse Policy, scheduled for launch by President Mnangagwa. This plan will serve as a blueprint for interventions against drug and substance abuse and will establish a Drug Enforcement Agency to coordinate and monitor anti-drug efforts.
This new initiative highlights the government’s dedication to addressing the drug and substance abuse crisis at a national level. The establishment of the Drug Enforcement Agency will enhance coordination among various stakeholders, ensuring a more effective and unified approach to combating drug trafficking and abuse. The recent accomplishments of the Mwenezi Police Service stand as a testament to the effectiveness of strategic law enforcement operations. Their vigilance and dedication have significantly disrupted the flow of illegal drugs, contributing to the safety and well-being of the community. With the impending launch of the National Action Plan for Drugs and Substance Abuse Policy, Zimbabwe is poised to strengthen its efforts in eradicating drug-related issues, fostering a safer environment for all its citizens.
