Bulawayo man pleads not guilty to alleged theft of medicines worth over US$17,000

BULAWAYO — A Bulawayo man has appeared in court accused of siphoning medicines valued at about US$17,640 from the Bulawayo City Council pharmacy, a case that has prompted questions about internal controls in public health facilities. Polite Nkomo (31) pleaded not guilty when he appeared before Magistrate Isheunesu Mathoba. He was granted bail of US$200 and released on conditions pending further investigations.

Prosecutors say the probe began after clinic officials noticed discrepancies between medicines requested and medicines received. A requisition from Magwegwe Clinic triggered a stock audit that revealed the same medication had already been issued earlier, prompting suspicion. The State alleges Nkomo repeatedly collected large quantities of Kocitaf tablets, recording them as delivered to clinics including Magwegwe, Mzilikazi, and Pelandaba, yet those clinics’ records showed no such deliveries. Investigators say supporting delivery documentation could not be produced.

Court papers allege Nkomo falsified stock records and completed store issue vouchers to conceal the alleged theft. To date, none of the missing medicines have been recovered, and the matter remains under active investigation.

As part of his bail conditions, Nkomo must:

• Reside at his declared address;

• Avoid interfering with witnesses;

• Report weekly to Khumalo Police Station.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police and municipal investigators are continuing enquiries to establish how the alleged diversion occurred and whether systemic weaknesses in stock control and oversight contributed to the loss. Health sector observers say the case highlights the need for stronger inventory management, regular audits, and tighter controls at municipal pharmacies to prevent diversion of essential medicines and protect public health resources.

The prosecution will pursue further evidence and witness testimony as the case progresses through the courts. Authorities have signalled they will examine internal procedures at the Bulawayo City Council pharmacy to identify and address any control failures.

Bulawayo medicine theft 2026