Chegutu man sentenced to 4 years in prison for illegal mbanje cultivation
In a stern crackdown on drug-related offences, the Kadoma Magistrates’ Court has sentenced a 29-year-old man from Chegutu to four years in prison for the unlawful cultivation of dagga (cannabis).
Norest Muyeye was arraigned before the court after authorities received a tip-off about his illegal activities. On May 16, 2024, police officers visited Muyeye’s residence and discovered a garden containing 88 dagga plants, each measuring approximately 1.5 meters in height.
Muyeye was charged with unlawful dealing in dangerous drugs, as he had been cultivating the cannabis without the necessary permit. After a thorough investigation, the court handed down a 60-month sentence, with 12 months suspended, leaving Muyeye to serve an effective term of 48 months behind bars.
This case serves as a clear warning that the Zimbabwean authorities are committed to tackling the illegal cultivation and distribution of drugs, such as dagga, within communities.
As the war on drugs continues in Zimbabwe, the Muyeye case stands as a testament to the determination of the country’s law enforcement and judicial system to maintain public safety and uphold the rule of law.
