ZRP Launches Manhunt For Three Alleged Harare Drug Lords Linked To Armed Robbery Syndicates

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has launched a nationwide manhunt for three men described as “highly wanted drug lords” allegedly linked to organised drug syndicates operating across Harare’s high-density suburbs. In a public appeal issued on May 10, police identified the suspects as Nomore Chabata, also known as “Nomara”, Joymore Chihwai, and Leon Mambohaatumwi. Authorities allege the trio operated sophisticated drug distribution bases in Mufakose, Marimba, and Mabvuku.

According to police investigations, the suspects allegedly used heavily fortified residential properties equipped with high perimeter walls, electric fences, CCTV surveillance systems, and aggressive guard dogs to avoid police raids. Investigators say some properties were guarded by pit bulls and other security measures designed to frustrate law enforcement operations. Paul Nyathi, the national police spokesperson, said the investigations revealed disturbing links between drug trafficking and violent organised crime.

“It is disturbing to note that the recovery of explosives in the contraband shows that the drug lords are linked to crimes such as armed robbery,” Commissioner Nyathi said.

Police believe the explosives may have been connected to criminal syndicates involved in safe-breaking robberies and violent heists. Authorities, however, have not yet disclosed where or when the explosives were recovered.

The manhunt comes amid intensifying police crackdowns on drug trafficking networks across Zimbabwe, particularly in urban areas where authorities say substance abuse has become a growing national crisis. In recent years, the government and law enforcement agencies have repeatedly warned about the rapid spread of illegal drugs and organised criminal syndicates operating in cities such as Harare and Bulawayo.

Security analysts say the use of sophisticated security infrastructure by suspected drug traffickers reflects the increasing financial power and organisation of drug syndicates operating in Zimbabwe. Harare-based crime analyst Dr Wellington Chikombo said criminal groups involved in narcotics often diversify into other serious offences.

“Drug syndicates are frequently linked to armed robbery, money laundering and violent organised crime because these operations require large financial networks and protection systems,” he said.

Police are urging members of the public with information regarding the whereabouts of the three suspects to report to authorities immediately. The ZRP appealed for information to be supplied through Police General Headquarters in Harare or any nearest police station. Authorities say investigations are continuing, and more details surrounding the alleged syndicates and recovered contraband will be released in due course. The latest operation highlights growing concern within law enforcement over the expansion of organised drug networks and their potential links to violent criminal activity in Zimbabwe.

Harare drug lords