Search Results

KETTERING, UNITED KINGDOM — A father of three from Kettering has died following a devastating collision on the M25 motorway that caused his lorry to burst into flames. Langton Zulu, described by family and friends as a devoted husband and loving father, was killed in the tragic incident, leaving behind his wife and three young sons aged eight, six, and four. The fatal crash occurred on the M25, one of the United Kingdom's busiest motorways, when the lorry Mr Zulu was driving was involved in a collision that resulted in a fire. Emergency services attended the scene, but he could not be saved. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, with relatives, friends, and colleagues paying tribute to a man remembered for his dedication to his family and hardworking nature. Mr Zulu's death has left a young family facing an uncertain future as they come to terms with the loss of a husband, father, and provider. Family members described him as a caring and committed parent whose life revolved around supporting his wife and children. Tributes have continued to pour in from across the community, with many expressing condolences and offering support to the bereaved family during this difficult period. Authorities are continuing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Mr Zulu is survived by his wife and their three sons, aged eight, six, and four. Langton Zulu M25 crash

HARARE — Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi has urged members of the military to remain apolitical and refrain from involving themselves in political processes, including the ongoing constitutional amendment exercise. Speaking during a change-of-command ceremony at Headquarters Mechanised Brigade in Inkomo on Wednesday, Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi said the military's constitutional role is to serve under civilian authority and implement decisions made by elected leaders, not to participate in political debates or constitutional reforms. The remarks come as Zimbabwe continues deliberations on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which has generated significant political and legal debate. Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi said armies across the world are not involved in drafting or amending constitutions and should not seek to influence political processes. “In instances, as we have now, where the Constitution is being written or amended, we can’t be involved in dissecting and coming to the conclusion that the power of the military has been usurped or that powers have been whittled. What power?” he said. “Are we even authors of the powers that we purport to have? Who among you wrote the Constitution? Did you Brigadier-General Nikisi and Brigadier-General Kufa write the Constitution? So, as it is being written now, why should you be involved?” The ZNA commander stressed that constitutional authority originates from the people through civilian institutions and not from the military. Tapfumaneyi reiterated that the Zimbabwe National Army derives its mandate from the country's civilian leadership and is required to execute lawful instructions issued through established constitutional structures. “We get our instructions as the army from the leadership of the country and execute them to perfection,” he said. “There is no country under the sun, whether you want to call it a democracy or dictatorship, where the army took part in writing the Constitution.” His comments underscore the constitutional principle of civilian oversight of the military, a cornerstone of democratic governance in many countries. The army commander also dismissed the notion that military institutions have a responsibility to intervene when they disagree with government policies or performance. He said no army in the world has a mandate to remove governments or seek to "correct" civilian authorities. “The army is subordinate to civilian authority and should not dabble in politics,” Tapfumaneyi said. The remarks are likely to attract attention, given Zimbabwe's political history and ongoing national debate surrounding constitutional reforms. The comments were made during the handover of command at Headquarters Mechanised Brigade, where Brigadier-General Stanford Kufa officially assumed command from Brigadier-General Raban Nikisi. Nikisi is expected to leave Zimbabwe to pursue further military studies in Nigeria. Military officials described the transition as part of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces' ongoing professional development and leadership succession programme. Zimbabwe is currently considering Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which proposes a number of changes to the country's governance framework. The Bill has sparked debate among political parties, legal experts, civil society organisations, and constitutional scholars, with supporters arguing that the reforms will strengthen governance, while critics have raised concerns about their potential implications. Against that backdrop, Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi's remarks reinforce the military leadership's position that constitutional and political matters should remain the responsibility of civilian institutions, with the armed forces maintaining their professional and non-partisan role. ZNA commander politics

HARARE — A major police operation in Harare's Southerton industrial area has resulted in the arrest of 46 people following the discovery of what authorities describe as an illegal alcohol manufacturing facility allegedly producing alcoholic beverages using ethanol. The operation, conducted by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), is part of ongoing efforts to combat illicit manufacturing activities, protect public health, and strengthen enforcement of food and beverage regulations. According to police, the suspects comprise 42 Zimbabwean nationals and four foreign nationals believed to have been involved in the operation of the facility. Investigators descended on the premises during a raid that exposed what authorities suspect was a large-scale illicit liquor production operation. Preliminary investigations reportedly uncovered substantial ethanol storage tanks, packaging materials, and quantities of finished alcoholic products allegedly prepared for distribution to consumers. The premises remain under police guard while investigations continue. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said initial investigations indicate that alcoholic beverages were allegedly being manufactured and marketed as wines and spirits using ethanol that had not been approved by the relevant authorities. Nyathi expressed concern over both the substances used in production and the conditions under which the beverages were allegedly manufactured. “The use of unapproved substances and production processes that do not comply with health regulations poses serious risks to consumers,” police said. Authorities also indicated that the facility's operating environment allegedly failed to meet required health and safety standards. Investigators are now working to establish whether any of the products reached the market and to determine the potential extent of consumer exposure. Police said the suspects are expected to face charges relating to violations of the Food and Food Standards Act and regulations governing the manufacture, processing, and distribution of alcoholic beverages in Zimbabwe. Commissioner Nyathi warned that all businesses operating in Zimbabwe, regardless of ownership, are required to comply with the country's regulatory and legal requirements. He said authorities would continue taking action against individuals and companies found violating public health and safety laws. The arrests come amid intensified government efforts to tackle drug and substance abuse, strengthen consumer protection measures, and improve oversight of potentially harmful products entering the marketplace. Authorities have increasingly targeted illegal manufacturing operations, unlicensed production facilities, and businesses operating outside regulatory frameworks. The government is also pursuing broader measures to address substance abuse through proposed institutional reforms, including plans to establish the Zimbabwe Drug and Substance Abuse Agency, which would coordinate national interventions against drug and substance abuse. Police have encouraged members of the public to report suspected illegal manufacturing activities, warning that unregulated production facilities can pose significant risks to public health, safety, and the economy. Investigations into the Southerton operation are ongoing, with authorities expected to conduct further inspections and forensic assessments of products seized during the raid. The 46 suspects are expected to appear in court once investigations are completed and formal charges have been finalised. Southerton illegal alcohol factory

MUTARE — Two employees at Hartzell Central Primary School in Penhalonga have been arrested and charged with culpable homicide following the drowning of two early childhood development (ECD) learners in the school's swimming pool. The tragic incident occurred on 11 June 2026 and has reignited concerns over child safety at educational institutions and the condition of recreational facilities at schools across Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest of Charles Chigwizura (49), a maintenance supervisor, and Andrew Chingono (38), a caretaker at the United Methodist Church-run mission school. The pair is expected to appear in court on Thursday. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Wednesday. Police said the two children who drowned have been identified as: Devian Andrew Mungazi (5) Lovemore Tendedziso (6) The victims were both ECD learners and were identified by their guardians following the tragedy. According to reports, the swimming pool where the incident occurred had reportedly not been operational for more than 20 years, with access to the facility said to have been restricted. Authorities have not yet disclosed the exact circumstances under which the children gained access to the pool. Following the incident, police renewed calls for schools, parents, and guardians to strengthen safety measures around playgrounds, swimming pools, and other recreational facilities used by children. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges school authorities, parents, and guardians to ensure that playgrounds and recreational facilities are adequately secured and constantly monitored to prevent avoidable tragedies,” said Commissioner Nyathi. He urged learning institutions to implement comprehensive safety systems to reduce risks to children. “Learning institutions should put in place safety measures, including fencing of swimming pools, access control systems, and deployment of trained personnel to supervise children during recreational activities,” he said. Police warned that school authorities and responsible personnel could face criminal prosecution where negligence contributes to injuries or loss of life. “The public is reminded that negligence in maintaining safe environments for children may result in loss of life and criminal liability,” Nyathi said. The incident has sparked concern among parents and education stakeholders, with calls for schools to review safety procedures, particularly around hazardous areas such as swimming pools, water reservoirs, construction sites, and playground equipment. Child safety advocates say regular inspections, proper fencing, clear warning signs, and constant supervision are essential in preventing accidents involving young learners. As investigations continue, the deaths of the two children have left families, classmates, and the wider Penhalonga community in mourning. The matter is expected to proceed through the courts following the appearance of the two accused school employees. Hartzell Primary School drowning

HARARE — The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has intensified inspections of high-value vehicles in Harare, drawing widespread public attention and reigniting debate about tax compliance, vehicle importation practices, and the source of wealth behind some of the country's most expensive automobiles. The ongoing operation, which has been highly visible along major routes including Borrowdale Road, has seen revenue officials stopping and verifying documentation for luxury vehicles, high-end sport utility vehicles (SUVs), performance cars, and premium double-cab trucks. The crackdown has quickly become one of the most discussed topics on social media, where many Zimbabweans have welcomed efforts to ensure that all vehicle owners comply with customs and tax regulations. While ZIMRA has not publicly disclosed the full scope of the operation, officials are understood to be verifying import documentation, customs clearance records, and duty payments for selected vehicles. The exercise comes amid longstanding concerns about vehicle smuggling, under-declaration of import values, and tax evasion, practices that authorities say deprive the fiscus of significant revenue. Economic analysts note that customs duties and import taxes remain an important source of government revenue, making enforcement operations a key part of efforts to improve tax collection. The operation has generated strong reactions from members of the public, many of whom argue that enforcement should apply equally to all vehicle owners regardless of their social status or economic standing. On social media platforms, some users have described the exercise as a welcome step towards promoting accountability and ensuring fairness within the tax system. Others have argued that authorities should broaden investigations beyond affluent suburbs and focus on sectors of the economy where large cash transactions are common. The debate has extended beyond Harare's northern suburbs, with some citizens calling for increased scrutiny in mining communities and other areas where concerns have previously been raised about illicit financial flows and informal economic activity. Governance experts have long argued that strengthening tax compliance and reducing illicit financial practices are critical to improving public finances and creating a level playing field for businesses operating within the formal economy. Tax consultants say vehicle owners should ensure they retain all import and customs documentation to avoid difficulties during verification exercises. Key documents typically required include: Customs clearance certificates. Proof of duty payment. Vehicle import invoices. Registration documents. Supporting valuation records where applicable. Failure to produce the required documentation may result in further investigations by the relevant authorities. The operation has become more than a routine compliance exercise, symbolising growing public demand for transparency, accountability, and stronger enforcement of tax laws. Analysts say the success of the initiative will ultimately depend on whether enforcement is applied consistently and fairly across all sectors of society. As the inspections continue, attention is likely to remain focused on the intersection of wealth, taxation, and compliance in Zimbabwe's economy, with many citizens closely watching whether authorities sustain the momentum beyond the current operation. For now, the message from revenue authorities appears clear: compliance with customs and tax regulations remains a legal obligation, regardless of the value of the vehicle being driven. ZIMRA luxury vehicle crackdown

HARARE — A disagreement has emerged between the Government of Zimbabwe and Cambridge University Press & Assessment over the implementation of the country's Heritage-Based Curriculum (HBC), raising fresh uncertainty for schools, parents, and learners about the future relationship between local and international education systems. The dispute centres on whether learners will be allowed to choose between the Heritage-Based Curriculum and international curricula such as Cambridge, or whether the government's curriculum will be compulsory for all pupils. The controversy follows a statement issued by Cambridge University Press & Assessment on June 15 after engagements with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC), school associations, and other education stakeholders. According to Cambridge, discussions with government officials indicated that learners would continue to have flexibility in choosing their curriculum pathway and would not be required to pursue both local and international programmes simultaneously. "Through these discussions, the ministry clarified that learners will continue to have a choice of curriculum and will not be expected to take both local and international curricula," said Louise Hendoy in a statement released by Cambridge. Cambridge also said it would collaborate with ZIMSEC on a structured review of the Heritage-Based Curriculum framework. The statement was welcomed by some private schools and parents who had expressed concerns about the possible impact of the reforms on internationally recognised qualifications. However, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education swiftly rejected Cambridge's interpretation, insisting that the Heritage-Based Curriculum remains mandatory for all learners in Zimbabwe. Ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro said there was no policy allowing pupils to choose between curricula. "There is no choice of curriculum. The Heritage-Based Curriculum is mandatory for all pupils in Zimbabwe. This position has not changed and will not be altered by any engagements with external examination bodies," Ndoro said. He stressed that learners who pursue international qualifications will still be required to follow the Heritage-Based Curriculum and sit for national examinations administered by ZIMSEC. According to the ministry, the first national examinations under the Heritage-Based Curriculum will be written in 2028. Government officials also indicated that ZIMSEC is expected to become the sole examining authority for Zimbabwe's national examinations from next year. While ruling out any ban on Cambridge qualifications, the ministry said international examinations would only serve as supplementary credentials. "We are not banning Cambridge or any other international examination board. Pupils may voluntarily sit for Cambridge examinations as an additional qualification, a supplementary one, but this does not replace or exempt them from the mandatory HBC and ZIMSEC-administered national examinations," Ndoro said. The ministry accused Cambridge of creating confusion by suggesting that learners could choose between curricula. "Any suggestion that pupils have a choice between curricula is incorrect and misleading. Cambridge's statement does not reflect the policy direction of the Government of Zimbabwe," Ndoro said. The disagreement comes at a crucial stage in Zimbabwe's education reform programme as authorities continue implementing the Heritage-Based Curriculum, which aims to align learning with the country's cultural heritage, industrialisation agenda, and national development priorities. Education stakeholders say the differing interpretations have created uncertainty among schools and parents, particularly those enrolled in international learning programmes. With the first Heritage-Based Curriculum examinations scheduled for 2028, schools are expected to seek further guidance from both government and examination authorities to ensure learners are adequately prepared for the transition. For now, the central question remains unresolved for many parents: how international qualifications will coexist with Zimbabwe's compulsory Heritage-Based Curriculum framework in the years ahead. Heritage-Based Curriculum Zimbabwe

HARARE — Calls are growing for a thorough investigation into the death of a young woman who allegedly died at Harare Hospital following complications arising from a pregnancy termination procedure reportedly carried out outside a formal medical facility. The woman, identified by friends as Juliana Makombe, died on Tuesday at Harare Hospital under circumstances that have sparked concern among relatives and acquaintances. According to information circulating on social media, Makombe was allegedly involved in a relationship with a junior doctor said to be employed at Harare Hospital. It is claimed that she became pregnant and later underwent a pregnancy termination procedure allegedly conducted at a residence within the hospital's doctors' accommodation complex. The circumstances surrounding the procedure, including whether it was authorised or performed in accordance with medical regulations, have not been independently verified. Social media posts further allege that complications developed following the procedure, resulting in Makombe being admitted to Harare Hospital for treatment. According to the claims, she subsequently underwent surgery on Sunday to address the complications and initially appeared to be recovering. However, despite reportedly being expected to leave the hospital, her condition allegedly deteriorated, and she died on Tuesday morning. Friends and relatives have called for a transparent investigation into the events leading to Makombe's death. Concerns have also been raised regarding the whereabouts of the doctor allegedly linked to the matter, although no official information has been released by authorities regarding any suspect or person of interest. Individuals close to the deceased have appealed to law enforcement agencies and health authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the death and determine whether any criminal or professional misconduct occurred. At the time of publication, the Zimbabwe Republic Police had not issued an official statement regarding the matter. Harare Hospital authorities had also not publicly commented on the allegations. Without official confirmation from investigators, the exact cause of death and the sequence of events leading to Makombe's passing remain unclear. The case has generated significant attention on social media, where users have called for accountability and a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the young woman's death. Medical experts note that any death occurring following a medical procedure would ordinarily require detailed investigation to establish the cause, identify any potential negligence, and determine whether established medical protocols were followed. As calls for justice continue, family members and friends say they hope the investigation will provide clarity and closure while ensuring accountability should any wrongdoing be established. Authorities are yet to announce whether a formal criminal investigation has been opened. Juliana Makombe death investigation

HARARE — The Constitutional Court has dismissed separate legal challenges brought by a group of liberation war veterans and opposition legislator Prince Dubeko Sibanda against the controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, clearing two immediate legal hurdles facing the proposed legislation. In judgments delivered on Tuesday, Justice Barat Patel ruled that neither application met the requirements for determination by the Constitutional Court at this stage. The decisions come as Parliament continues deliberations on the Bill ahead of an anticipated vote later this week. The first challenge was brought by six liberation war veterans represented by constitutional lawyer Lovemore Madhuku. The applicants sought an order declaring the proposed constitutional amendments invalid, arguing that the Bill was unconstitutional and that President Emmerson Mnangagwa should not have participated in Cabinet discussions concerning reforms from which they alleged he could potentially benefit. However, Justice Patel ruled that the constitutional obligations relied upon by the applicants were not sufficiently specific to trigger the Constitutional Court's exclusive jurisdiction. As a result, the application was struck off the roll without the court determining the substantive constitutional issues raised. In a separate ruling, the court also dismissed an application filed by Prince Dubeko Sibanda, finding that the matter had been brought before the courts prematurely. The judgment means that Sibanda's challenge will not proceed at the Constitutional Court in its current form. The court did not make findings on the substantive legality or constitutionality of the proposed amendments. Speaking after the ruling, Madhuku said the Constitutional Court had not rejected the legal arguments on their merits but had instead determined that the matter had been filed in the wrong forum. “The Constitutional Court has said that although the President has the duties that we had indicated in the application, those duties are not specific enough to allow the Constitutional Court to exercise its exclusive jurisdiction,” Madhuku said. He explained that the ruling effectively directs applicants to first pursue the matter through lower courts before approaching the apex court through the normal appeals process. “What this means is that the application ought to be lodged in a lower court such as the High Court. The High Court can determine those issues and then it goes up to the Constitutional Court through the normal processes of appeals and so forth,” he said. The judgments remove, at least for the time being, two significant legal obstacles that could have delayed the progress of the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. The Bill has generated intense political, legal, and constitutional debate across Zimbabwe. Critics argue that some of the proposed amendments could alter important constitutional safeguards and significantly reshape aspects of the country's governance framework. Supporters, however, contend that the reforms are necessary to strengthen governance structures, improve institutional efficiency, and enhance the functioning of key public offices. With the Constitutional Court declining to intervene at this stage, attention now shifts back to Parliament, where lawmakers are expected to continue debating the proposed amendments. Legal analysts say the rulings do not prevent future constitutional challenges, as the issues raised could still be brought before the High Court and potentially return to the Constitutional Court through the normal judicial appeals process. For now, however, Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 remains on course as legislators prepare to consider its next stage in Parliament. Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 challenge

HARARE — The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe has been rocked by an unprecedented leadership crisis after outgoing president John Musekiwa reportedly broke down during an Annual General Meeting (AGM) and declined an endorsement for a second term, triggering a chain of events that has left the influential mining body facing questions over its succession process. The dramatic developments, which have not previously been publicly reported, occurred during an online AGM held on 28 May 2026, just weeks before the Chamber's Annual Mining Conference and Exhibition in Victoria Falls. Sources familiar with the proceedings claim the events bore the hallmarks of a coordinated effort to influence the leadership transition, although no formal complaint has been lodged and no evidence of wrongdoing has been independently verified. According to multiple mining industry sources, the AGM was expected to be largely procedural after Musekiwa, Munashe Shava, and Fungai Makoni were nominated unopposed for the positions of president, first vice president, and second vice president, respectively. Under long-standing Chamber practice, uncontested nominees are typically endorsed without requiring a competitive vote. The Chamber's leadership structure generally follows a succession hierarchy in which the first vice president progresses to the presidency, while the second vice president moves up accordingly. However, attendees say the meeting took an unexpected turn when a former Chamber president reportedly requested that each candidate be subjected to an individual vote despite their uncontested nominations. “The intervention came as a surprise because, traditionally, the top three never go through an election after an uncontested nomination, even though this is something that is provided for in the constitution,” a senior mining executive who attended the meeting said. After being put to a vote, Musekiwa reportedly received the required endorsement from members. However, attendees say a further intervention was made, requesting that he formally indicate whether he accepted the endorsement. It was at this point that Musekiwa allegedly became emotional before declining the position, citing health reasons. His decision immediately created uncertainty over the Chamber's leadership succession process. Industry insiders say the timing of the withdrawal surprised many delegates because it occurred only after he had secured endorsement from members. Neither Musekiwa nor Chamber officials have publicly elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the decision. With the presidency suddenly vacant, delegates were forced to determine a replacement. According to sources, Makoni, Managing Director of Mimosa Mining Company, was nominated for the presidency despite Shava holding the position of first vice president and being next in line under the Chamber's customary succession arrangement. The unexpected development reportedly led to procedural disputes and a contested election between Shava and Makoni. Attendees questioned voting procedures, the role of auditors, and the mechanics of the election process. One executive said some delegates were surprised to learn that auditors were already present and prepared to supervise the vote. “Someone raised questions about logistics for the elections, such as the need for auditors, but to our surprise auditors were present, and this was also odd,” the executive said. Sources further allege that lobbying and campaigning occurred during the voting process, with claims that some participants were pressured to reconsider their positions. “We have established that people who had voted in a certain way were coerced to change their positions, and they rewrote emails indicating that they were switching candidates,” one executive alleged. The allegations have not been independently verified, and no evidence has been produced publicly to substantiate the claims. Makoni ultimately emerged as the new Chamber president. Sources say Shava subsequently resigned from his position as first vice president after concluding that the process had been manipulated. Neither Shava nor Musekiwa responded to requests for comment. The Chamber of Mines has not publicly addressed the allegations surrounding the AGM. The controversy comes as mining executives, investors, and policymakers gather in Victoria Falls for the Chamber's flagship annual conference, an event that traditionally focuses on investment, production growth, mineral beneficiation, and policy reforms within Zimbabwe's mining sector. With the industry facing renewed scrutiny over governance and transparency, questions surrounding the Chamber's leadership transition are likely to remain a topic of discussion in the weeks ahead. Chamber of Mines Zimbabwe leadership crisis

CHITUNGWIZA — Chitungwiza Municipality has warned members of the public against purchasing residential stands being illegally marketed near Zengeza 8 Primary School, saying fraudsters are targeting home seekers through social media platforms. The local authority says it has received reports of individuals unlawfully selling land adjacent to Zengeza 8 Primary School in Zengeza 3, allegedly collecting money from unsuspecting buyers under the false pretence of offering legitimate residential stands. In a notice issued on 15 June 2026, Acting Town Clerk Japson Nemuseso urged prospective home seekers to verify the authenticity of any land transaction with the municipality before making payments. Nemuseso said the municipality had not authorised any individual, company, or group to allocate, peg, or sell residential stands on its behalf in the area concerned. “The site plan being circulated to prospective buyers is fraudulent and has no connection with Chitungwiza Municipality,” he said. According to the council, the alleged land sales are being promoted primarily through WhatsApp groups with limited membership, a tactic authorities believe is intended to avoid public scrutiny and detection. The municipality said fraudsters are reportedly demanding payments from prospective beneficiaries, including fees purportedly required for offer letters. “Council is not issuing any offer letters in respect of these alleged stands. Claims are that prospective beneficiaries are required to pay US$300 for an offer letter,” Nemuseso said. The council stressed that any transactions entered into with the individuals behind the alleged scheme are illegal and will not be recognised by the municipality. “Any transactions entered into with the individuals involved are illegal, and Council dissociates itself entirely from such dealings,” Nemuseso said. He emphasised that the only lawful method of acquiring a residential stand in Chitungwiza is through official municipal channels. “The only lawful way to acquire a residential stand is through Council’s official channels, with all payments made directly to Council and supported by official receipts,” he added. The municipality urged anyone who has already paid money to suspected land scammers to report the matter immediately to the police. “Any person who has paid money to, or has been defrauded by, these individuals is urged to report the matter immediately to the nearest Police Station,” Nemuseso said. He also encouraged residents to alert either Chitungwiza Municipality or the Zimbabwe Republic Police whenever they become aware of suspected illegal land sales. The warning comes amid recurring reports of fraudulent land sales across Zimbabwe's urban areas, where home seekers are often targeted by individuals posing as land developers, housing cooperatives, or municipal agents. Local authorities have repeatedly advised prospective property buyers to verify ownership documents, allocation records, and payment procedures before committing funds to land transactions. Officials say exercising due diligence and dealing only with recognised institutions remains the best protection against property-related fraud. The municipality reiterated its commitment to safeguarding residents from scams and urged the public to remain vigilant when responding to land advertisements circulated on social media platforms. Chitungwiza fake residential stands

HARARE — A Harare parent and son of late national hero Alfred Nikita Mangena has been arrested and charged following a disturbance that erupted after a school's rugby match between Eaglesvale College and Christian Brothers College (CBC) on Saturday. Lotshe Yuri Rodgers Mangena, 50, was arrested after tensions flared at Eaglesvale College following the hosts' dramatic 14-13 victory over CBC in a closely contested fixture. Police have charged Mangena with assault and pointing a firearm following the incident, which has sparked widespread debate about safety and conduct at school sporting events. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on 16 June. According to police, a firearm allegedly linked to the incident was recovered during investigations. “The suspect has since appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court,” Nyathi said. Videos that circulated widely on social media showed chaotic scenes after the final whistle, with spectators entering the playing field as emotions ran high following the match. Police allege that Mangena was involved in the disturbance and later faced charges relating to assault and the alleged pointing of a firearm. Court proceedings heard that tensions escalated after a late penalty decision that ultimately secured victory for Eaglesvale College. According to prosecutors, some supporters entered the field intending to challenge the referee's decision following the final whistle. The State alleges that during the ensuing commotion, Mangena produced a pistol and displayed it in the presence of spectators gathered at the venue. Prosecutors further alleged that he struck a 16-year-old Form Four pupil once in the face during the incident. The court heard that the teenager did not sustain visible injuries and remained in a stable condition. Mangena appeared before Harare Magistrate Ruth Moyo, who granted him bail of US$100 pending further court proceedings. The matter remains before the courts. The incident has attracted significant public attention following the circulation of video footage online. The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has expressed concern over the events and called for improved discipline, safety, and crowd control at sporting venues. Authorities say school sporting events should remain safe environments for players, officials, parents, and supporters. The incident has reignited debate over spectator behaviour at youth sporting competitions and the measures required to prevent violence and disorder at school fixtures. Education and sports stakeholders have increasingly emphasised the need for responsible conduct from spectators, particularly at school competitions involving children and young athletes. The latest incident is expected to prompt further discussions on security arrangements, crowd management, and the enforcement of codes of conduct at school sporting events across Zimbabwe. Police investigations are continuing, while the courts are expected to determine the merits of the charges facing Mangena. As the legal process unfolds, authorities have urged members of the public to allow the courts to deal with the matter and to avoid actions that could undermine safety at sporting events. Lotshe Mangena rugby match arrest

CHITUNGWIZA — Chitungwiza Municipality has ordered operators of pool tables located at unauthorised sites across the town to remove them and any associated illegal structures within seven working days, citing growing concerns over drug and substance abuse. The directive was issued in a public notice dated 16 June 2026 and signed by Acting Town Clerk Japson Nemuseso. According to the municipality, authorities are increasingly concerned about the proliferation of pool tables at undesignated locations, including residential areas, tuckshops, shebeens, overnight parking sites, road servitudes, and public transport termini. Nemuseso said reports received by the local authority suggest that some of the facilities are being used as centres for drug dealing and substance abuse, particularly among young people. “The Municipality has received reports that some of these facilities are being used as centres for drug dealing and substance abuse activities, particularly among young people. Such activities pose a threat to public safety, community well-being, and the future of our youth,” he said. He added that the municipality was taking the action as part of efforts to create a safer and more orderly environment for residents. “In the interest of protecting communities and promoting a safe and orderly environment, Chitungwiza Municipality hereby directs all operators of pool tables located at unauthorised sites to remove them, together with any related illegal structures, within seven working days from the date of this notice,” Nemuseso said. The municipality warned that operators who fail to comply with the directive risk having their pool tables confiscated and may face further enforcement measures permitted under the law. Authorities said municipal officials would work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the order. “Failure to comply with this directive will result in the confiscation of the pool tables and any other enforcement action as provided for by law,” the notice stated. As part of the crackdown, Chitungwiza Municipality has also instructed all district offices to immediately stop issuing permits related to pool table operations pending a review of existing authorisations. “Furthermore, Chitungwiza Municipality has directed all district offices to immediately cease issuing permits relating to pool tables pending a review of existing permits,” Nemuseso said. The move is expected to affect operators seeking to establish new pool table businesses within the municipality. The local authority said the enforcement campaign forms part of broader efforts to combat the growing problem of drug and substance abuse within the town. Among the initiatives being pursued are plans to establish a day-care rehabilitation centre at Utano in Zengeza 4 and a 24-hour rehabilitation facility at Tatenda Tavern. According to the municipality, the centres will provide treatment, counselling, rehabilitation, and reintegration services for individuals battling substance abuse, with a particular focus on young people. Residents have been encouraged to report illegal drug-related activities to the relevant authorities and participate in community efforts aimed at protecting young people from substance abuse. The directive follows a resolution adopted during the 508th Ordinary Council Meeting of the Municipality of Chitungwiza, held on 15 June 2026. Chitungwiza illegal pool tables