DRUG CRACKDOWN: ZRP Seizes 40kg of Mbanje in Simon Mazorodze Raid

HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested four suspected drug dealers at a truck stop along Simon Mazorodze Road in Harare following a high-stakes raid that yielded 40 kilogrammes of mbanje (dagga). The operation, conducted on Monday, is part of a broader nationwide offensive against drug trafficking and substance abuse.

Detectives from the CID Drugs and Narcotics unit acted on gathered intelligence to intercept the suspects at the busy transit point. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the recovery of the 40kg contraband and identified the apprehended individuals as:

• Christina Mazango

• Chelusi Saidi

• Priscilla Matros

• Joseph Mangwende

The crackdown extended to the Bulawayo–Harare Road, where police intercepted another group at Sharona Park. Howard Chiweshe, Tanaka Tasara, Valerie Manyura, and Regard Gumbo were taken into custody after allegedly being found with mbanje and bottles of Boncleer cough syrup. In a related incident at the Hwedza turn-off, police intercepted a bus and arrested Garikai Guruvaza. He was allegedly found in possession of Astra Pain cough syrup, which authorities believe was being transported illegally.

Meanwhile, in Bulawayo, detectives arrested Reason Mpande for the unlawful possession and cultivation of mbanje. Following a search at his workplace that uncovered loose dagga, Mpande led officers to his residence, where a mbanje field was discovered. All suspects are expected to appear in court as investigations into the various supply chains continue.

ZRP drug arrests Harare Simon Mazorodze