Harare Officials Demand Probe into Broncleer Syrup Waste

Codeine Waste in the CBD (Image Source)

Authorities have raised alarm after large quantities of discarded Broncleer cough syrup bottles were discovered at the Simon Muzenda Street Terminus (formerly Fourth Street), sparking calls for a police investigation into possible drug abuse and illegal dumping. The discovery was made during the National Cleanup campaign, where inspectors found wet plastic cups and freshly emptied bottles scattered across the terminus. Broncleer, a codeine-based cough syrup, is widely misused by youths as a recreational drug “This cup is still wet; it looks like it was used this morning,” observed Mrs. Gloria Denhere, Acting Director of Infrastructure Planning at Harare City Council.

Health experts warn that abuse of codeine-based syrups can cause addiction, organ damage, and mental health disorders. Mrs. Denhere voiced concern: “Can they fend for their families after taking Broncleer?” The issue comes amid rising reports of youth drug abuse in Harare, including substances such as crystal meth and illegal cough mixtures. Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Affairs Charles Tawengwa linked the problem to broader issues of urban disorder and pollution.“A bus terminus should symbolize order and convenience, not pollution and neglect,” Tawengwa said.

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has pledged to intensify surveillance and collaborate with police to crack down on substance abuse and illegal dumping. Urban analysts say the incident reflects deeper social crises, including youth unemployment and inadequate regulation of pharmaceuticals.

Calls are growing for community-based rehabilitation centres and stronger enforcement of drug laws to tackle the problem at its root.