Zimbabwe Deploys Elite Anti-Drug Unit as Authorities Intensify Crackdown on Trafficking Syndicates

HARARE, Zimbabwe – The Government has activated a specialised anti-drug enforcement unit comprising selected police and military officers as part of an intensified campaign to combat drug and substance abuse and dismantle sophisticated trafficking networks operating across Zimbabwe.

The unit, established three weeks ago following a high-level security review involving intelligence and law enforcement agencies, is already credited with dozens of arrests and several convictions linked to drug trafficking and distribution. Authorities say the move comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of dangerous substances such as crystal methamphetamine, mbanje, BronCleer cough syrup, and unregistered pharmaceuticals, which have increasingly affected communities across the country.

According to security sources, the specialised unit was created after investigations allegedly revealed that some members of previous anti-drug enforcement structures had become compromised through suspected links to drug syndicates. A senior intelligence officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the new structure was designed to strengthen accountability and improve operational effectiveness.

"Yes, I can confirm that a special anti-drug and substance enforcement mechanism was activated following recommendations made during an inter-agency security review," the officer said.

"The country is facing a dangerous and evolving drug problem that requires a new tactical approach. The unit is fully operational and comprises highly trained officers with specialised capabilities in surveillance, intelligence gathering, tactical response and covert operations."

The officer added that the unit has been equipped with mobility assets, surveillance technology, and specialised operational support to tackle increasingly sophisticated criminal networks.

Authorities say the intelligence-led unit has already conducted operations in major urban centres and strategic entry points believed to be used as transit routes for illegal drugs. According to figures provided by security sources, the unit has made 44 arrests linked to drug trafficking, unlawful possession, and distribution of dangerous substances. At least 14 suspects have already been convicted, while several investigations remain ongoing.

Police are reportedly searching for Norman Chabata of Marimba, Harare, who is alleged to be linked to drug trafficking activities. Three of his relatives, Cathrene Chembe (36), Loveness Phiri (43), and Loice Musakwa (36), have appeared in court facing drug-related charges. Their case remains before the courts.

In one of the unit's most significant operations to date, investigators uncovered a concealed drug storage facility in Mbare, Harare. Authorities allege narcotics were hidden in a two-metre-deep underground compartment concealed beneath a dog kennel occupied by aggressive dogs. Police arrested Paul Mazinyane (37), Thelma Sorjen (25), and Prince Takaendisa (32), all from Joburg Lines in Mbare, in connection with the discovery.

Investigators reportedly recovered hundreds of bottles of codeine-based cough syrup, quantities of mbanje and mbanje seeds, packaging materials, weighing equipment, and records allegedly linked to drug distribution. Authorities also reported recovering explosives from the site, with the matter now before the courts.

"The drugs were hidden underground beneath a kennel occupied by dangerous dogs. It was clearly designed to intimidate or delay law enforcement officers during searches," the intelligence officer said.

The latest crackdown forms part of Zimbabwe's Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030), a national strategy aimed at reducing drug supply, preventing substance abuse, and strengthening rehabilitation services. Updating the Cabinet recently, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, who chairs the Zimbabwe National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, said authorities had recorded significant progress.

Government statistics show that 2,889 suspects have been taken to court, resulting in 381 convictions. Authorities have also dismantled 453 drug supplier networks, identified 2,436 end-users, and shut down 31 drug bases in Manicaland and Mashonaland West provinces. In addition, drugs and illicit substances valued at more than ZiG79.9 million have been seized during nationwide operations. Officials say investigations and enforcement activities will continue as authorities seek to dismantle entire trafficking networks, including suppliers, transporters, financiers, and facilitators involved in the illegal drug trade.

Zimbabwe anti-drug unit