Zimbabwe Arrests Nearly 3,000 in Massive Drug Crackdown as ZiG80 Million Worth of Drugs Seized

Zimbabwe’s intensifying war against drug and substance abuse has resulted in the arrest of nearly 3,000 suspects and the seizure of drugs valued at almost ZiG80 million, according to figures presented during the latest post-Cabinet briefing in Harare.

The revelations were made during the 15th post-Cabinet media briefing held on May 19, where Cabinet reviewed progress under the country’s Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030). Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, who chairs the Zimbabwe National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, presented the report outlining the scale of the nationwide operation. According to the Cabinet, 2,889 accused persons have already appeared before the courts as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle drug syndicates and combat rising substance abuse, particularly among youths.

Government officials confirmed that 381 convictions had already been secured. The crackdown reportedly targeted suppliers, users and illegal drug hubs operating mainly in parts of Manicaland and Mashonaland West provinces.

“Approximately 453 drug suppliers, 2,436 individual end-users, and 31 drug bases were dismantled in the selected districts of Manicaland and Mashonaland West Provinces,” Cabinet said.

Authorities revealed that drugs and illicit substances worth approximately ZiG79,931,130 had been confiscated during the operations.

The seized substances reportedly included crystal meth, cocaine, ecstasy tablets, dagga, khat, and unregistered medicines such as illegal cough syrups, which have become increasingly common among young drug users. The Government says law enforcement agencies are continuing efforts to break supply chains and disrupt criminal networks distributing dangerous substances across Zimbabwe.

As part of the broader operation, authorities also launched inspections targeting liquor outlets nationwide. Cabinet said 615 liquor-licensed premises were inspected, while 36 unlicensed outlets were fined and shut down after they were found operating illegally. The anti-drug campaign has also focused on prevention and rehabilitation initiatives. According to the Cabinet, awareness and prevention campaigns have so far reached 285,918 beneficiaries across the country.

“Other strategic interventions include robust awareness and prevention campaigns covering 285,918 beneficiaries; acquisition of drug-testing kits and the re-integration of 171 children with their families,” Cabinet said.

Officials also confirmed that 32 children living and working on the streets were removed during the operations.

Social development experts have repeatedly warned that economic hardships, unemployment, and mental health challenges are contributing to increased drug abuse among Zimbabwean youths. Harare-based social commentator Rashweat Mukundu said the Government’s enforcement strategy should be matched with stronger rehabilitation and economic support systems.

“Arrests alone will not solve the drug crisis. The country also needs investment in rehabilitation centres, counselling services and youth economic empowerment programmes,” he told local media.

Authorities announced that approximately 37,937 youths and women had already benefited from rehabilitation, entrepreneurship, and vocational training programmes linked to the anti-drug strategy. Cabinet also confirmed the launch of a US$1 million youth empowerment fund aimed at reducing vulnerability among young people. The Government says the anti-drug programme, which runs until 2030, focuses on prevention, rehabilitation, psychosocial support, economic strengthening and legal reforms.

“Government continues to spearhead the legislative and policy framework in order to strengthen coordination, accountability, prevention, rehabilitation, treatment and enforcement interventions,” Cabinet said.

Zimbabwe drug crackdown

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