Bulawayo Socialite Gary Bell Sentenced to 12 Months for Cocaine and Ecstasy Dealing

A bag of narcotics(image source)

In a case that has gripped Bulawayo’s upper circles and exposed the undercurrents of drug crime within the city’s nightlife, prominent socialite Gary Bell, 42, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison after being convicted of possessing and dealing in cocaine and ecstasy.

The Tredgold Magistrates Court handed down the sentence on July 9, 2025, following months of legal drama, public speculation, and police investigations that culminated in the socialite’s arrest earlier this year.

Arrest at The Smokehouse

Bell, a resident of the upscale Burnside suburb, was arrested on February 15, 2025, during a joint operation by detectives from Harare CID Drugs Unit and Bulawayo Police. The sting was set in motion by a tip-off alleging that Bell was actively trafficking drugs at The Smokehouse, a popular nightlife spot in Hillside. According to court records, Bell was searched upon arrival at the venue, driving a silver Toyota GD6. Police discovered multiple sachets of cocaine both on his person and inside his vehicle. A follow-up search of his Burnside home yielded additional cocaine stashed in a jewelry box within a built-in wardrobe, alongside digital weighing scales and razor blades smeared with drug residue. Investigators recovered a total of approximately seven grams of cocaine, estimated to be worth US$480, and ecstasy tablets valued at US$60. Forensic testing confirmed the identity of both substances.

Courtroom Drama and Sentencing

Magistrate Shepherd Mnjanja initially sentenced Bell to 18 months imprisonment, with six months suspended on condition of good behavior, leaving him to serve 12 months behind bars. Throughout the proceedings, Bell maintained his innocence, claiming that the drugs were planted. His lawyer, Mr. Shepherd Chamunorwa of Calderwood, Bryce Hendrie and Partners, argued procedural violations, stating:

“My client was intoxicated at the time of his arrest and was forced to sign documents without fully understanding them. The police also seized his mobile phones without a warrant or his consent, which was unlawful.”

Despite the defense’s objections, the court upheld the charges, citing the seriousness of the offence and the risk of absconding. Magistrate Mnjanja denied initial bail, stating:

“The accused is facing a serious offence which, upon conviction, carries a custodial sentence rather than a fine. The State considers him a flight risk.”

Bell was later granted bail after prosecutors revised the charges from possession with intent to distribute to simple illegal possession—a lesser charge. He posted US$300 bail under strict reporting conditions, including regular check-ins and residential restrictions.

Police and Public Reaction

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) hailed the conviction as a major breakthrough in curbing urban drug trafficking, particularly within Bulawayo's social hotspots.

Detective Inspector Brenda Nyoni, who led the investigation, stated:

“This conviction sends a strong message that drug dealing will not be tolerated. We will continue to work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.”

The case has sparked divided public opinion. While some see it as a positive step in fighting narcotics in elite social spaces, others have called for greater investment in rehabilitation and prevention, especially for youth and vulnerable users.

Growing Concern Over Urban Drug Networks

Bell’s conviction adds to growing concerns over drug abuse and trafficking in Zimbabwe’s cities. The use of hard drugs like cocaine and ecstasy, once rare in the country, is reportedly on the rise—particularly in entertainment venues and affluent circles. Public health advocates are urging government stakeholders to accompany law enforcement with expanded drug education, treatment centers, and social reintegration programs for users and non-violent offenders. As Bell begins his prison term, many in Bulawayo are left reflecting on how one of its most recognizable social figures became the symbol of a deeper issue threatening Zimbabwean society from within.