A series of recent drug busts across Zimbabwe have highlighted the ongoing battle against mbanje trafficking in the country.
From highway roadblocks to routine patrols, law enforcement agencies are actively working to intercept illicit substances and bring those involved to justice. These incidents underscore the persistent challenge of drug trafficking and the need for continued vigilance.
In Chivhu, a Chitungwiza man’s trial for mbanje possession has been postponed. Brighton Makoni (42), of Unit K, Chitungwiza, was arrested last Wednesday after a South Africa-bound Meizon bus was stopped at a roadblock near Featherstone.
During a search of passengers’ luggage, officers discovered a bag containing four plastic bags of dagga. The bus conductor identified Makoni as the owner of the bag. When asked for a permit to possess the dagga, Makoni failed to produce one, resulting in his arrest.
The dagga weighed 19.7kgs. Provisional Magistrate Thomas Gurajena postponed the trial, and the new date is yet to be determined. Taonga Masaire is prosecuting the case.
This incident raises several questions that require further investigation. What was Makoni’s intended destination for the dagga? Was he travelling alone, or was he part of a larger trafficking network? Understanding these details is crucial for comprehending the scope of the dagga trade and the individuals involved.
In another incident, a significant drug bust occurred on September 22, 2023, along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road. As part of an operation codenamed “No to Cross Border Crimes,” police stopped an Inter Africa bus at a security roadblock near the 10-kilometre peg.
The search yielded a staggering 62 kilograms of dagga hidden on board. Police arrested the bus driver, Tonderai Mafo (48), the bus conductor, Mberikunashe Allen (25), and two female passengers – Pauline Mudakuvaka (36) and Alice Mutanda (68). This incident demonstrates the scale of dagga trafficking and the lengths to which individuals will go to transport these illicit substances. It also highlights the importance of strategic police operations in disrupting these criminal activities.
Meanwhile, in Bulawayo, an 18-year-old man, Frank Ndlovu, from Umguza, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for illegal drug possession. Ndlovu pleaded guilty to the charge before Bulawayo Magistrate Mrs Evia Matura. Six months of the sentence were suspended on condition of good behaviour, while the remaining six months were converted to 210 hours of community service. Mrs Matura considered Ndlovu’s age when passing the sentence but stressed the need for deterrent measures to combat the growing drug problem.
“Possession of dagga is becoming a common issue, and it is essential to send a strong message to prevent further occurrences,” she stated. She further emphasized the need to address the root causes of drug abuse and implement effective prevention strategies.
Ndlovu’s arrest occurred on September 20th when police on patrol observed him retrieving an item from a blue plastic bag concealed in his trousers. Upon searching the bag, police discovered 20 sachets of dagga, leading to his arrest. This incident underscores the importance of proactive policing in tackling drug-related offences.
These incidents, taken together, paint a picture of a persistent drug problem in Zimbabwe, requiring a multi-pronged approach involving law enforcement, judicial action, and community engagement. Further investigation is needed to understand the networks involved in dagga trafficking, the routes used, and the ultimate destinations of these illicit substances.
