PRETORIA – Three men, including a father-and-son duo, have appeared in court following their arrest in an intelligence-led operation targeting alleged cross-border smuggling networks facilitating illegal movement into Zimbabwe. The suspects Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi (45), Khonsou Seba Capo Chichi (18), and alleged facilitator François van der Merwe were arrested on April 13, 2026, in Brooklyn, Pretoria. The operation was conducted by South Africa’s South African Police Service , led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation through its Crimes Against the State unit, with support from the Tactical Operations Management Section and Crime Intelligence’s Counter Terrorism unit . Police said the arrests followed intelligence linking the suspects to facilitating illegal crossings into Zimbabwe via the Limpopo River, a route frequently used for irregular migration. “SAPS can confirm that the three accused were arrested during an intelligence-driven operation after information was received regarding the facilitation of illegal movement into Zimbabwe through the Limpopo River,” police said in a statement. Authorities intercepted the suspects during a sting operation at a shopping centre in Pretoria, where a payment of approximately R250,000 is believed to have been made to facilitate the illegal crossing. Police recovered cellphones and around R318,000 in cash, which has since been seized as part of the investigation. Investigators believe the operation may have been part of a broader human smuggling network, with plans for the individuals involved to continue onward to Europe. Preliminary investigations revealed that Stellio Capo Chichi is allegedly a wanted fugitive in both France and Benin for offences relating to crimes against the state. With assistance from Interpol, South African authorities have confirmed his wanted status in Benin. “The Hawks, working with Interpol, have confirmed the accused's status as a wanted fugitive in Benin,” SAPS said. The trio briefly appeared in court on Wednesday, where the matter was postponed to April 20, 2026. All three accused were remanded in custody as investigations continue. Authorities indicated that extradition processes are now underway, particularly in relation to the international charges facing Capo Chichi. Security analysts say the case highlights growing efforts by regional law enforcement agencies to dismantle organised smuggling networks operating across Southern Africa. The Limpopo River remains a known hotspot for illegal crossings, often exploited by syndicates facilitating migration and trafficking. Experts warn that such operations are increasingly sophisticated, requiring coordinated responses between countries and international policing bodies. illegal crossing Zimbabwe Limpopo River

JOHANNESBURG  — The legal proceedings against Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe  and his co-accused, Tobias Matonhodze , have reached a tense impasse at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court. Following Friday's testimony, a significant divide has emerged between the defence’s narrative of a resolved settlement and the State’s persistent pursuit of critical evidence. The courtroom atmosphere grew charged when the lead investigating officer, Lt. Col. Raj Ramchunder , took the stand. Directly contradicting submissions made by Mugabe’s defence team, Ramchunder categorically denied that the police had any involvement in, or knowledge of, a financial settlement between the accused and the victim, Sipho Mahlangu. While defence advocate Laurence Hodes  had argued that the families had proactively approached the complainant and secured an agreement, Ramchunder’s testimony effectively nullified the suggestion that the State had sanctioned or facilitated any such arrangement. The failure to locate the firearm allegedly used in the February shooting remains the primary obstacle for investigators. During his testimony, Ramchunder emphasized the gravity of the State's position, stating: “The accused shows no remorse in assisting the police in any way to point out the firearm. They know where the firearm is.” This statement underscores a significant point of contention: while the defence seeks to frame the matter as ready for "finality," the State maintains that the investigation remains hampered by the accused's lack of cooperation regarding the weapon's whereabouts. The divergence in the accused's legal standing has become increasingly pronounced: Bellarmine Mugabe: Has admitted to pointing a firearm and contravening South Africa's Immigration Act. His defence maintains the weapon was a "toy gun." Tobias Matonhodze: Has entered guilty pleas to five charges, including attempted murder, possession of an unlawful firearm, and defeating the ends of justice. Defence attorney Sinenhlanhla Mnguni moved to dismiss speculation that Matonhodze is "taking the fall" for Mugabe, asserting that the pleas were entered into freely and voluntarily. Meanwhile, Hodes continues to push for a resolution via a "hefty fine," arguing that the accused are prepared to settle immediately to secure their return to Zimbabwe. With sentencing now scheduled for April 24, 2026, the court faces the difficult task of weighing the defence’s plea for mercy against the State’s frustration regarding the missing evidence and the seriousness of the underlying charges. Bellarmine Mugabe trial settlement dispute

MATOBOLAND SOUTH – Some traditional leaders were left angered after being denied entry into Maphisa Stadium during Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Day celebrations, raising concerns over event coordination and recognition of local leadership. Among those affected was Chief Fuyane, who expressed disappointment at being excluded from official proceedings despite serving as the host chief for the event. Speaking after the incident, Chief Fuyane said he had expected to play a central role in welcoming guests and closing the celebrations. “As the host chief, I am disappointed for not being given that opportunity to either welcome or thank all those who attended the celebrations,” he told The Standard . He added that the exclusion undermined the traditional leadership structure, which typically plays a key role in national and community events. Chief Fuyane revealed that several chiefs, including Chief Bidi, were turned away by security personnel who failed to recognise them. “There was a lot of stampeding. For some, we ended up negotiating for their entry into the stadium since they were not recognised by the security personnel,” he said. Witnesses described scenes of confusion at entry points, with some dignitaries struggling to gain access as crowds surged into the venue. Security analysts say such incidents often point to coordination gaps between local organisers and national security teams during large-scale state events. Chief Fuyane urged authorities to adopt a more inclusive approach in the future, recommending closer collaboration between local leadership and national security personnel. “There is a need to blend local security systems with national teams so that such incidents do not happen again,” he said. Event management experts note that integrating local knowledge is critical in identifying key stakeholders and ensuring smooth access control during high-profile gatherings. Despite the frustrations, Chief Fuyane commended the government for rolling out infrastructure projects in the province as part of Independence Day legacy initiatives. He highlighted significant upgrades at local schools and community facilities. “Mahetshe Primary and Secondary schools are among those that experienced massive developments. We now have a cultural centre and a stadium — these are the first of their kind in the district and the province at large,” he said. The incident has sparked broader discussion about the role of traditional leaders in national ceremonies and the need to preserve cultural protocols alongside modern security systems. Analysts say recognising traditional authorities remains essential in maintaining community cohesion, particularly in rural areas where chiefs are central to governance and social organisation. Maphisa Stadium Independence Day incident

GUTU – A prominent opposition activist in Masvingo Province is reportedly in hiding amid fears of arrest over allegations of undermining the authority of the President in a social media post. The activist, Wilson Run’anga, is said to have gone into hiding after unknown individuals reportedly visited his home in Mpandawana looking for him during the Easter holidays. According to reports, Run’anga was reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police at Gutu Police Station over remarks allegedly made in a WhatsApp group. The complaint, filed under police report number RRB 6776506, accuses him of making statements deemed to undermine the authority of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The message in question reportedly read: “Are you aware that there are people insisting that Mnangagwa, despite failing to run the country, wants to cling to power?” He is also alleged to have criticised the recall of Members of Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu, suggesting the move contributed to economic hardship. Sources indicate that although Run’anga has not yet been formally summoned by police, he chose to go into hiding as a precaution after individuals reportedly made inquiries about his whereabouts. The complaint was reportedly filed by Victor Musarurwa (29) of Old Location, Gutu. Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Kudakwashe Dhewa said he had not yet seen the report when contacted for comment. The lack of official confirmation has left uncertainty over whether formal charges will be pursued. Legal experts say cases involving alleged insults against the President often fall under laws relating to undermining authority, which have historically been controversial in Zimbabwe. Human rights advocates argue that such cases raise questions about freedom of expression, particularly in relation to political speech on private digital platforms. A Harare-based legal analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “There is an ongoing debate about the balance between protecting the dignity of public office and safeguarding citizens’ constitutional rights to free expression.” The incident highlights increasing scrutiny of social media activity in Zimbabwe, where WhatsApp groups and other digital platforms have become key spaces for political discussion. Observers say the case could test how authorities handle alleged offences committed in private online forums. Gutu activist hiding Zimbabwe

HARARE  — Botswana’s President Duma Boko is set to arrive in Zimbabwe this Tuesday, April 21, for a high-stakes three-day State visit that is expected to recalibrate bilateral ties and accelerate shared economic agendas. The visit, undertaken at the invitation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, will culminate in the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF). The centrepiece of the trip is the Fifth Session of the Zimbabwe-Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC), a high-level structure designed to move beyond political rhetoric and into the realm of tangible project implementation. The BNC serves as the apex body for the two nations' bilateral cooperation. Before the Heads of State conclude the summit, a rigorous tiered engagement process will unfold: Senior Officials' Engagements: Setting the technical agenda for the various working groups. Ministerial Session: Co-chaired by Zimbabwe's Foreign Affairs Minister, Amon Murwira, and Botswana’s Minister of International Relations, Phenyo Butale. Leaders' Summit: The final session where Mnangagwa and Boko will issue "bold and strategic direction" on cross-border initiatives. The agenda is comprehensive, covering trade and investment, agriculture, energy security, tourism, and health systems. The goal is to move past the framework established in Maun in February 2024 and begin executing joint infrastructure and regional connectivity projects. President Boko’s visit is strategically timed to coincide with the 66th ZITF, where he will serve as the Guest of Honour at the official opening on Thursday, April 23, at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo. The trade fair presence underscores the focus on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). For both nations, the visit is a signal to regional investors that the Harare-Gaborone corridor is open for business. By aligning their industrial and agricultural policies, the two leaders aim to create a more integrated market capable of leveraging the broader SADC economic bloc. Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Philisiwe Chidawanyika emphasized that this visit reflects the "enduring bonds of friendship, solidarity and shared history" between the two nations. However, the business community will be watching closely for progress on specific bottlenecks such as cross-border transport costs, energy sharing, and the alignment of agricultural phytosanitary standards that continue to hinder trade efficiency. As President Boko steps into the role of guest of honour, the expectation is that this visit will provide the political will necessary to expedite the implementation of long-stalled joint ventures. For Zimbabwe, the diplomatic engagement is crucial to maintaining momentum in its re-engagement efforts, while for Botswana, it represents a commitment to deepening its most vital regional economic partnership. President Duma Boko Zimbabwe State visit 2026

VICTORIA FALLS  — The historic Victoria Falls Bridge, a 120-year-old engineering marvel that has long served as a vital artery for regional trade, is set to undergo a major transition. President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia has announced that both Zambia and Zimbabwe will formally restrict heavy trucks and trains from using the bridge to protect its structural integrity. The announcement, made during the Engineering Institution of Zambia conference, marks a definitive shift in regional transport policy, prioritizing the preservation of the landmark over its historical use as a commercial crossing. Completed in 1905, the bridge was never engineered to withstand the massive volumes of modern heavy cargo now moving across the Zambezi. For years, engineers have raised concerns about the stress placed on the bridge’s original ironwork by modern 30-plus-tonne haulage trucks. "Protecting this bridge is not just an engineering necessity; it is a commitment to safeguarding one of southern Africa's most iconic tourist attractions," officials noted during the conference. By removing the constant vibration and heavy load strain, authorities hope to extend the lifespan of the structure for future generations. The restriction is expected to divert bulk freight to more modern and capable corridors, specifically the Kazungula Bridge  and the Chirundu border crossing . The Kazungula Bridge, a modern multi-national infrastructure project, was designed precisely to handle the high volumes of heavy commercial traffic that have historically choked the Victoria Falls route. For the tourism industry in Victoria Falls and Livingstone, the move is being hailed as a major win. The constant presence of long-haul trucks has long been a source of noise, visual pollution, and traffic congestion in what is otherwise a premier international tourism hub. Reducing heavy traffic is expected to significantly improve the visitor experience, making the border crossing smoother and the town centers quieter. The decision reflects a growing maturity in regional infrastructure planning. With the commissioning of the Kazungula Bridge, the reliance on the ageing Victoria Falls crossing for commercial transit has become increasingly redundant. While logistics companies may initially face adjustments in their supply chain routes, the long-term consensus is that the regional economy will benefit from more efficient, high-capacity routes like Kazungula, which allow for faster turnarounds and lower long-term maintenance costs for haulers. The ban is expected to be phased in, with authorities working closely with freight associations to ensure a smooth transition to alternative routes. Victoria Falls bridge heavy truck ban 2026

GUTU  — A 61-year-old man from Gutu has been sentenced to an effective 20 months in prison after a trivial disagreement over a title escalated into a violent stabbing at a local business centre. Hebert Magombedze appeared before Magistrate Innocent Bepura this week, where he was convicted of assault following a brutal attack on 23-year-old Samson Mberikunashe. The case serves as a grim reminder of how quickly verbal altercations in rural service centres can spiral into life-threatening violence. The altercation, which took place on the evening of August 24, 2025, began when Mberikunashe addressed Magombedze as “Sabhuku,” a term denoting a village head. While the title is typically a sign of respect, it appears to have deeply offended Magombedze, sparking a heated exchange that quickly turned physical. According to court testimony led by Prosecutor Nixon Chamisa, the confrontation did not end with the initial argument. Magombedze allegedly struck Mberikunashe in the eye during their first exchange. When the younger man attempted to leave the scene, Magombedze pursued him, catching up with him while he was walking home. The encounter on the road proved far more dangerous. The court heard that Magombedze confronted the victim a second time and stabbed him once in the left rib. The wound was deep, penetrating the chest area and causing significant physical harm. Despite the severity of the injury, Mberikunashe did not immediately seek police assistance, filing his report three days later after assessing the damage. A medical report later presented in court confirmed the seriousness of the chest wound, providing the necessary evidence to secure the conviction. Magistrate Innocent Bepura delivered a firm sentence, emphasizing the need to deter such violent outbursts in the community. The Sentence Breakdown: Total Sentence: 36 months imprisonment. Suspended Portion: 16 months suspended for five years, contingent on good behaviour. Effective Imprisonment: 20 months. Magistrate Bepura’s ruling reflects a growing judicial stance against the use of violence to resolve personal disputes in Masvingo province. For Magombedze, the next year and eight months will be spent behind bars, a significant price to pay for a dispute that began with a single, misunderstood word. Hebert Magombedze Gutu assault sentence

NKAYI  — The community of Nkayi Ward 19 is reeling in shock and grief following a harrowing incident on Thursday, April 16, that claimed the lives of a Grade 2 pupil and a young man in a local well-shaft. What began as a routine chore ended in catastrophe near Nkayi Primary School when a child was sent into a well to retrieve a fallen bucket, allegedly lured by the promise of sweets. The tragic sequence of events has sparked outrage and mourning across the district. According to local reports, the young pupil was instructed by an elderly man to descend into the well-shaft to recover a container that had fallen to the bottom. When the boy failed to resurface after several minutes, the gravity of the situation became clear. A neighbour, attempting a heroic rescue, climbed into the shaft to save the child. Tragically, he too was quickly overcome by what is believed to be carbon monoxide and a severe lack of oxygen, common hazards in deep, stagnant well-shafts. A third villager who attempted to assist the pair was forced to signal for an emergency extraction after experiencing instant suffocating heat and an inability to breathe. Unable to safely enter the shaft due to the invisible toxicity, villagers were forced to use makeshift tools from above to retrieve the bodies. Councillor Thubelihle Mabuza Ncube , who visited the scene shortly after the recovery, expressed the profound trauma felt by the community. "It is very painful… a Grade 2 pupil being sent into the well by elders to go and retrieve a container from the bottom," Cllr Ncube said, highlighting a disturbing trend of reliance on children for high-risk tasks. "Nkayi is hurting deeply." The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has acted swiftly, confirming that the man who allegedly instructed the child to enter the well has been charged in connection with the deaths. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the lethal risks posed by domestic wells, particularly during periods when oxygen levels can be depleted by organic decomposition at the bottom of the shafts. "This is a preventable tragedy," noted a local safety officer. "Wells, especially those that have not been maintained, act as traps for toxic gases. They should never be accessed without proper breathing apparatus, and certainly never by children." As the community prepares for the burials, calls are mounting for stricter oversight of rural water infrastructure and an end to the dangerous practice of using minors for hazardous domestic work. Nkayi well tragedy April 2026 A Grade 2 pupil and a neighbor have died in a well-shaft tragedy in Nkayi, Ward 19. Police have charged a man with sending the child into the dangerous shaft.

HARARE – Zimbabwe’s flagship arts event, the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA), is set to return in 2026 after an eight-year hiatus, marking a major revival for the country’s cultural and creative industries. Organisers confirmed that the festival will run from August 3 to 9, 2026, in Harare under the theme “Up”, symbolising renewal, growth, and a fresh chapter for one of Africa’s most celebrated arts platforms. First launched in 1999, HIFA grew into a continental cultural powerhouse, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually and showcasing diverse talent across music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. Its last edition was held in 2018, and its return is widely seen by arts stakeholders as a turning point for Zimbabwe’s struggling creative sector. Arts analyst Nyasha Moyo told Southerton Business Times the comeback could have far-reaching economic and cultural impact. “HIFA’s return is not just about entertainment it’s about restoring Zimbabwe’s position as a regional arts hub, creating jobs and rebuilding international cultural links,” she said. In a significant shift, organisers unveiled a long-term roadmap to transform HIFA into a year-round creative platform. Future dates have already been confirmed: HIFA 2027: April 26 – May 2 HIFA 2028: May 1 – 7 This forward planning signals a more structured and sustainable approach aimed at stabilising the festival’s future. As part of the expanded programming, HIFA will introduce a monthly stand-up comedy series titled “Laughter, the Best Medicine.” The series will debut in Harare from June 26 to 28, 2026, before moving to Bulawayo on July 4, providing a consistent platform for local comedians. Event organiser Tariro Dube said the initiative is designed to nurture talent and keep audiences engaged throughout the year. “We are creating continuous opportunities for creatives, not just a once-a-year spotlight,” she said. HIFA also announced a “Zimbabwe Independence” international tour series, which will showcase local artists abroad as the country builds momentum toward its 50th independence anniversary in 2030. Additional events on the calendar include: International Heritage and Arts Symposium (IHAS) – September 20, 2026 “The Right Stuff” Festival – December 7 to 13, 2026 These initiatives are expected to broaden the festival’s footprint beyond performance into dialogue, heritage preservation, and global cultural exchange. Tourism and hospitality players are optimistic that HIFA’s return will stimulate economic activity, particularly in Harare’s events, accommodation, and transport sectors. Industry experts say large-scale festivals like HIFA play a critical role in attracting international visitors and promoting Zimbabwe as a cultural destination. After years of absence, the return of HIFA represents more than just a festival revival it signals renewed confidence in Zimbabwe’s creative economy. For artists, audiences, and investors alike, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be a defining moment in rebuilding the country’s cultural landscape. HIFA 2026 Zimbabwe

JOHANNESBURG  — The high-profile attempted murder trial of Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe and his co-accused, Tobias Matonhodze, has descended into legal friction following explosive revelations at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court this past Friday. The proceedings, already under heavy public scrutiny, hit a deadlock after a heated dispute emerged regarding an alleged out-of-court settlement and the whereabouts of the firearm reportedly used in the February shooting of security guard Sipho Mahlangu. The courtroom atmosphere turned tense when investigating officer Colonel CJ Raj took the stand. In a direct rebuttal to the defence team's narrative, Colonel Raj categorically denied facilitating any out-of-court settlement between the accused and the victim. Defence lawyers had previously informed the court that the Mugabe and Matonhodze families had approached the complainant to initiate a compensation arrangement, with the knowledge of the investigating officer. Colonel Raj’s testimony, however, shut down these claims, asserting that no such deal had been authorized by the police. As the trial continues to unfold, the legal strategies of the two accused appear to be diverging significantly: Tobias Matonhodze: Has pleaded guilty to attempted murder and defeating the ends of justice. Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe: Has admitted to being in South Africa illegally and to pointing a firearm—though his defence team is characterizing the weapon as a "toy gun." Defence lawyer Laurence Hodes attempted to steer the court toward a resolution, arguing that both men are prepared to pay a "hefty fine" to settle the matter and expedite their return to Zimbabwe. "Should this court be inclined to impose a fine… both accused are in a position to pay," Hodes submitted. The trial’s primary roadblock remains the missing firearm a critical piece of evidence. Colonel Raj emphasized that the State is still actively searching for the weapon, accusing the accused of showing "no remorse" and failing to cooperate with investigators to locate it. Co-defence lawyer Sinenhlanhla Mnguni moved to dispel rising speculation that Matonhodze was "taking the fall" for Mugabe by pleading to the more serious attempted murder charge. Mnguni maintained that the accused were simply exercising their right to plead to the charges as they saw fit, cautioning against the "sensationalisation" of the trial. The case has been postponed, leaving the court to deliberate on the path forward. With the firearm still missing and the validity of the defense's proposed financial settlement hanging in the balance, the trial is expected to continue with deeper investigations into the February Hyde Park incident. For now, the trial remains in a state of flux, with the defence’s push for a fine-based resolution facing stiff resistance from the State’s pursuit of a more substantive criminal conviction. Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe trial Johannesburg

CHIREDZI  — Tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party in Chiredzi West have taken a dangerous turn following a reported petrol-bomb attack on the home of the Ward 25D chairman, Elias Chinanga, on Thursday night. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through local political circles, is being linked by observers to the deepening factional rifts currently plaguing the party’s district structures. Chinanga has formally filed a report with the Triangle Police Station regarding the attack. However, he expressed frustration over the investigation process, noting that authorities have yet to issue him an official Reference Report Book (RRB) number to confirm the filing of his case. Sources close to the chairman allege that the bombing is the culmination of weeks of escalating threats. According to these sources, the Ward 25D councillor, Richard Mazambani, had allegedly threatened to "burn Chinanga in his sleep" during a rally held at Mahanyele Primary School on April 9. "There is serious factionalism in our ward," one local source claimed. "Chinanga's house was petrol-bombed after the threats were made publicly at the rally." Chinanga confirmed that he had provided the police with a list of individuals he believes are responsible for the attack. The list includes the ward councillor, Richard Mazambani, alongside several associates, Arkmore Themezani, Muzizi, Yvonne Mapfaka, Rumbidzai Chitare, and an individual identified only as Chibike. Fortunately, there were no casualties in the attack. Chinanga’s children were away visiting their grandmother for the school holidays when the incident occurred. While the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has yet to confirm or deny the details of the case, the incident reflects broader concerns about the rising volatility of Zanu PF internal politics. Nationwide, factional infighting often linked to succession debates and party structure control has increasingly moved from boardrooms to the grassroots level. Analysts monitoring the situation warn that unless local party leadership intervenes to mediate these conflicts, such acts of violence could escalate, potentially undermining party stability in the Chiredzi district ahead of upcoming internal selections. For now, Chinanga remains in a state of uncertainty, waiting for official police confirmation and a clear path toward justice. Chiredzi West Zanu PF petrol bomb

HARARE – Jailed businessman Moses Mpofu has opened up about an emotional moment during the recently concluded Family Week at Chikurubi Maximum Prison, revealing how one of his young sons asked to spend the night with him behind bars. Mpofu, who is serving a 22-year sentence, described the interaction as both “touching and painful”, highlighting the emotional toll incarceration takes on families. “I had one of my sons saying, ‘Daddy can I sleep over with you today,’ and it was so touching,” Mpofu said in an interview with Destiny TV. Mpofu was convicted alongside Mike Chimombe for defrauding the government of US$7 million linked to the controversial Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme. The duo, through their company Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming, secured a US$87 million contract to supply 500,000 goats under a national livestock programme aimed at improving rural livelihoods. However, the court found that after receiving an advance payment of US$7.7 million, the funds were diverted for personal use, leading to lengthy custodial sentences. Chimombe is currently serving a 17-year term. The Family Week initiative allowed inmates extended time with relatives, offering rare moments of connection within the confines of prison life. Mpofu said while the programme brought joy, it also magnified the pain of separation. “Saying goodbye will be a very sad moment for me… it is painful, but it is a pain of joy as we are all grateful for the opportunity to meet with our families,” he said. He added that the experience has deeply affected him as a father, particularly when interacting with his children. Reflecting on his conviction, Mpofu said the experience has reshaped his perspective on life, business and responsibility. “I would advise my son to tread carefully, abide by the law and make sure all transactions are in black and white,” he said. He warned against shortcuts in business, emphasising the importance of due diligence and accountability. Mpofu also appealed to authorities to consider extending the Family Week programme, suggesting August as a more suitable period for families travelling long distances. “I have relatives who came from South Africa, Botswana and Bulawayo. Their support means everything,” he said. His co-accused, Chimombe, also received visits from family members and associates, including Lawrence Dhairo. The emotional scenes at Chikurubi highlight the broader human impact of imprisonment, particularly on children and families left behind . As Family Week came to a close, Mpofu bid farewell to his loved ones uncertain when they will meet again, with the next visitation period expected later in the year. Moses Mpofu prison story