HARARE – Luke Malaba will not sit on the seven-member bench of the Constitutional Court of Zimbabwe set to hear a high-stakes case challenging proposed constitutional amendments that could extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule to 2030. Malaba is expected to step down on May 14, just days before the matter is scheduled to be heard on May 20, effectively excluding him from proceedings in what is shaping up to be a landmark constitutional case. The application was filed by a group of war veterans, including Reuben Zulu, Godfrey Gurira, Shoorai Nyamangodo, Joseph Chinyangare, Digmore Digmore, Knowledge Ndiya, and Joseph Chinguwa. The applicants are seeking to nullify the proposed Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, arguing that it violates key provisions of Zimbabwe’s Constitution. The case centres on whether the proposed amendments could unlawfully extend presidential term limits, a matter that touches on fundamental constitutional safeguards. In their court papers, the applicants argue that the President has already breached the Constitution by presiding over and advancing the amendment process. “The complaint is that the first respondent has already failed to defend the Constitution by presiding over and being party to the Executive advancement of the impugned scheme,” Zulu said in his affidavit. They cite Section 328(7), which bars the extension of presidential terms, and Section 88(1), which outlines the President’s duty to uphold the Constitution. The Attorney-General’s Office Zimbabwe, through Attorney-General Virginia Mabhiza, filed opposing papers both on her own behalf and on behalf of the President. Mabhiza argued that the application is premature, as the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill has not yet been enacted into law. “The matter is speculative and does not present any foreseeable disputes of fact,” she submitted. However, the applicants have challenged her authority to represent the President in the matter, adding another layer of legal complexity to the case. Legal experts say the case is likely to test critical constitutional principles, including: Whether courts can intervene before a Bill becomes law The limits of executive authority in legislative processes The interpretation of constitutional safeguards on term limits Constitutional lawyer Tapiwa Zivira said the outcome could set an important precedent. “This case goes to the heart of constitutionalism in Zimbabwe. It will determine whether the judiciary can act proactively to prevent potential violations,” he said. With Chief Justice Malaba set to exit before the hearing, attention now shifts to the composition of the bench that will preside over the matter. The ruling could have far-reaching implications for Zimbabwe’s political landscape, governance framework, and the interpretation of constitutional law. The case is expected to draw significant public and legal interest when it is heard later in May. Malaba Constitutional Court case

HARARE – Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has dismissed allegations that he has “sold out the struggle for democracy,” describing the claims as part of a coordinated propaganda campaign. The accusations, largely from sections of the opposition and civic activists, stem from Chamisa’s perceived silence and limited public engagement on the controversial Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 currently before Parliament. In a brief but pointed statement, Chamisa rejected the allegations, saying they were politically motivated and driven by misinformation. “Disturbing to note a propaganda campaign of fake news, fabricated falsehoods and contrived lies being sponsored by the oppressors,” he said. He reiterated his stance that Zimbabwe is facing a broader governance and constitutional crisis. “The will of the citizens must be restored and respected. Zimbabweans must unite against the disputed government and amendments,” Chamisa added. The proposed constitutional changes have sparked widespread debate across Zimbabwe’s political and legal landscape. The Bill reportedly seeks to: Extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years Introduce an indirect system of electing the President through Members of Parliament Critics argue that such changes could significantly alter the country’s democratic framework. Constitutional experts and opposition figures have raised concerns that the proposed amendments may require a national referendum under Section 328 of the Constitution, particularly where fundamental governance structures are affected. Harare-based constitutional lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu said public consultation is critical. “Any amendment that affects the structure of governance or the electoral system must be subjected to the will of the people through a referendum,” he said. However, the government and the ruling ZANU PF party maintain that a referendum is not legally required, arguing that the amendments can be enacted through Parliament. Officials insist the legislative process currently underway is sufficient and constitutionally sound. Chamisa emphasised that the issue transcends political party lines, framing it as a national concern. “This is no longer about political parties but about Zimbabwe,” he said. The debate around Amendment No. 3 comes at a time of heightened political tension, with increasing scrutiny over constitutional reforms and their potential impact on democratic governance. Political analysts say Chamisa’s response reflects an attempt to reassert his position within the opposition while addressing concerns from his support base. “There is pressure on opposition leaders to take a clear and visible stance on constitutional reforms. Silence can easily be interpreted as complicity,” said political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya. As discussions continue, the proposed amendments are expected to remain a flashpoint in Zimbabwe’s political discourse, with significant implications for the country’s governance and electoral systems. Nelson Chamisa statement

HARARE  — In a landmark victory for international asset recovery, the High Court of Zimbabwe has granted a breakthrough order to enforce a Singaporean asset-freeze against two foreign nationals residing in Zimbabwe. The ruling, delivered on April 9, 2026, by Justice Justice Wamambo, paves the way for the seizure and monitoring of local assets belonging to Singaporean couple Yong Khong Yoong Mark and Emily Hwang Mei Chen. The couple, who are permanent residents of Zimbabwe, are embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle involving a massive US$77.8 million gold investment fraud claim. The local ruling stems from a Mareva Injunction issued by the High Court of Singapore in July 2025. The injunction was sought by Singaporean investor Ser Kang Wei (also known as Jack) and his firm, Lucent Trading Limited. The claimants allege they were defrauded in a sophisticated "South African and Zimbabwean gold trading scheme." According to court documents, the scheme purportedly involved purchasing gold from artisanal miners through a local company, BetterBrands Investments, and selling it to Fidelity Printers and Refiners, a subsidiary of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. The respondents challenged the enforcement in Harare, arguing that the Singaporean order was merely "interim" and thus unenforceable under Zimbabwean law. However, Justice Wamambo dismissed these objections, noting that the Singaporean court had already conducted a contested hearing in December 2025 where it expressly authorized the order’s enforcement in Zimbabwe. "The answer as to whether or not a judgment or order is final lies not in its form, but in its effect," Justice Wamambo ruled, declaring the injunction "final and definitive" regarding the specified assets. The High Court's civil ruling is just one layer of the mounting legal pressure on Yong Khong Yoong Mark. The businessman was recently arrested by Zimbabwean police near the Norton tollgate in a dramatic operation. Current Criminal Allegations against Yong include: Investment Fraud: Allegedly defrauding a Chinese businessman of US$1.3 million in a separate mining deal. Illegal Gold Possession: Police reportedly recovered 10 grams of gold nuggets during a search of his Borrowdale residence. Money Laundering: Charges related to the movement of funds linked to his various mining interests. The High Court ruling effectively "locks" the couple’s Zimbabwean business interests, which reportedly include several mining claims, preventing them from disposing of assets while the primary fraud trial continues in Singapore. Zimbabwe High Court Singapore asset freeze

HARARE  — Legendary broadcaster and entertainment mogul Augustine Tichafa Matambanadzo, known to millions as Tich Mataz, appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court yesterday to answer to charges of culpable homicide. The charges stem from a tragic road traffic accident on July 27, 2024, that resulted in the death of 44-year-old pedestrian Uchena Daniel. Appearing before Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzayi, Matambanadzo (55) was informed that his trial is officially set to commence on May 19, 2026. According to state prosecutors, the fatal encounter occurred along Samora Machel Road near the Odzi Flats in Eastlea. Matambanadzo was reportedly behind the wheel of a Toyota Hilux, traveling westbound toward the city center with three passengers on board, when the vehicle struck Daniel as he attempted to cross the busy thoroughfare. The impact, which occurred on the front right side of the vehicle, was severe enough to shatter the windscreen and damage the bumper. While Matambanadzo and his passengers escaped physical injury, Mr. Daniel sustained critical trauma. He was rushed to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals but was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival. The State’s case rests on several counts of alleged criminal negligence. Prosecutors argue that the veteran DJ failed to exercise the "duty of care" required of a motorist on one of Harare’s most active roads. The State’s core allegations include: Failure to keep a proper lookout: Neglecting to monitor pedestrian movement in a high-traffic zone. Excessive Speed: Traveling at a velocity that prevented timely braking under the prevailing circumstances. Failure to Act: Neglecting to take evasive maneuvers when an accident appeared imminent. "The accused person had no right to drive in the manner he did," the prosecution stated, characterizing the death of the Highlands resident as a "preventable accident." Tich Mataz has been a household name in Zimbabwe and South Africa for decades, famously known for his "Midas Touch" on the airwaves. However, this legal battle marks a somber chapter in his public life. Following the accident, the Toyota Hilux was impounded and inspected by the Vehicle Examination Department (VED) in Eastlea to determine if mechanical failure played any role. The findings of that report are expected to be a focal point when the trial opens in May. If convicted of culpable homicide under the Road Traffic Act, the broadcaster could face a range of penalties, including a fine, a suspended prison sentence, or the cancellation of his driver’s license. Tich Mataz culpable homicide trial

HARARE — In a coordinated early-morning sweep on Tuesday, April 14, the Harare Metropolitan Police removed over 100 individuals living on the streets of the Central Business District (CBD), transporting them to various state-run and registered care facilities. The operation is the latest in an aggressive campaign by the Ministry of Local Government and provincial authorities to "restore order" to the capital’s sunshine status. The move targeted both adults and minors who have been occupying pavements, shop fronts, and public parks throughout the city center. According to the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, the crackdown was necessitated by a sharp rise in reported drug abuse and deteriorating sanitary conditions within the CBD. "Authorities raised concern over rampant drug abuse and growing public health risks such as poor sanitation and theft," the Ministry stated. Officials noted that the presence of makeshift camps had become a "public safety risk," particularly following a series of petty thefts reported by evening commuters. Key Components of the Recovery Plan: Minors: Children rescued during the operation are being placed in registered child care facilities where they will receive basic education and counseling. Adult Rehabilitation: Adults are being screened for substance abuse, with the government emphasizing the need for detoxification programs. By-law Enforcement: The city is moving toward stricter enforcement of municipal by-laws to prevent the re-establishment of street camps. While the "round-up" has been welcomed by some business owners who complain of harassment and filth outside their premises, social workers have called for a more sustainable approach. "Rounding people up is a temporary fix if we don’t address the root causes like poverty and the lack of mental health facilities," says Dr. Tinashe Gumbo, a social policy analyst. "We need dedicated rehabilitation centers and skills training to ensure these individuals do not return to the streets within a week." Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume recently noted that the city’s social services department is working with the Department of Social Welfare to identify "safe houses" that can provide more than just a bed, but a pathway back into society. By Wednesday morning, several major thoroughfares, including Jason Moyo Avenue and First Street Mall, appeared cleared of street dwellers. Residents have noted an increased presence of municipal police patrols to ensure the "order" is maintained as the city prepares for its 46th Independence Day celebrations this weekend. Harare municipal police street dwellers operation

HARARE – A security guard stationed at Hallingbury Primary School in Mabelreign has died following a violent robbery attack, as community leaders warn of a deepening security crisis across Harare’s western suburbs. The fatal incident, confirmed on April 14, has heightened fear among residents in Mabelreign, Sunridge, Greencroft, and Westgate, coming amid a surge in armed robberies in the area. Ward 17 councillor Happymore Gotora said the guard was brutally assaulted by robbers while on duty and later succumbed to injuries in the hospital. “Today we woke up to sad news once again in our ward as we lost a life due to robbers. A security guard who was manning Hallingbury Primary School was severely assaulted and later died,” Gotora said. Gotora revealed that the latest incident marks the second robbery-related death in the ward within a fortnight, underscoring growing insecurity in the community. “This has caused great concern in our neighbourhoods, and something needs to be done as a matter of urgency to protect residents,” he added. Residents say fear has gripped the area, with many now avoiding movement at night. “We no longer feel safe. These robberies are becoming too frequent and too violent,” said a Mabelreign resident who declined to be named. Following the incident, Gotora said he engaged officers at Mabelreign Police Station under the Zimbabwe Republic Police, who pledged to intensify security operations. “They assured me that starting immediately, there will be intensified night patrols across all suburbs in the ward,” he said. Additional units, including the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Dog Section , and Support Unit, have reportedly been deployed to reinforce patrols. The killing comes just days after a series of high-profile robberies in the same area, raising fears of a coordinated criminal network. On April 10, armed suspects ambushed police officers in Mabelreign, assaulting three officers and stealing a Heckler & Koch G3 rifle, along with mobile phones and a vehicle. The officers were later treated at Parirenyatwa Hospital. Days later, on April 13, suspected members of the same gang allegedly used the stolen rifle to raid the Village of Hope Institution in Westgate, making off with more than US$30,000 after overpowering security guards. The firearm was later recovered at the scene, according to investigators. Community leaders have urged residents to take precautionary measures as police investigations continue. “Let us not open doors during the night, even for people we know, as they may be acting under duress. Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately,” Gotora warned. Security experts say the pattern of attacks points to organised criminal activity. “The level of coordination and use of firearms suggests a structured gang operating across multiple suburbs,” said Harare-based security analyst Tinashe Dube. Police have not yet confirmed arrests linked to the fatal attack, but say investigations into the robbery spree are ongoing. The latest incident has intensified calls for stronger policing and community vigilance, as residents in Harare’s western suburbs grapple with rising violent crime. Mabelreign robbery killing

HARARE  — The Government has issued a strong appeal to the private sector to refrain from hiking prices following the commencement of civil servants’ salary reviews this week. Speaking at a post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, April 14, authorities warned that speculative pricing could trigger an inflationary spiral and negate the intended boost to workers' purchasing power. The salary adjustments began rolling out on April 12, with members of the uniformed forces being the first to receive the revised remuneration packages. Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo criticized the tendency of some retailers to adjust prices based on consumer income levels rather than actual operational overheads. “Businesses should price their models based on cost escalations,” Minister Moyo stated. “We would encourage them not to take that route [speculative hikes] because it has an effect on inflation and puts further pressure on civil servants’ salaries.” In a strategic move to curb market speculation, the Government has notably withheld specific salary figures from public pronouncements. Minister Moyo explained that by focusing on the remuneration framework rather than exact amounts, the State hopes to deprive opportunistic businesses of the data used to calculate percentage-based price hikes. Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube reiterated that the primary goal of the review is to protect the welfare of the public workforce. Meanwhile, Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu provided a cautiously optimistic update, noting that government monitoring currently shows minimal movement in the cost of basic commodities. “Most of these increases have been absorbed; prices have remained relatively the same,” Ndlovu noted, suggesting that the initial phase of the rollout has not yet triggered the feared market volatility. Key Takeaways for Businesses Pricing Integrity: Base prices on the cost of production, not consumer raises. Inflation Control: Speculative hikes are viewed as a threat to national economic stability. Ongoing Monitoring: The Ministry of Industry and Commerce will continue tracking the price of basic goods to ensure compliance with fair trade practices. Zimbabwe civil servants salary review 2026

HARARE  — US President Donald Trump has removed a controversial AI-generated image from his Truth Social platform that depicted him as a Christ-like figure, following a wave of condemnation from his own religious base and a mounting public feud with Pope Leo XIV. The now-deleted post surfaced late Sunday, showing Trump in white robes with a glowing hand placed on the forehead of a man in a hospital bed, a scene strikingly similar to classical depictions of Jesus healing the sick. The background featured a surreal mix of the Statue of Liberty, fighter jets, and an eagle, set against a backdrop of a praying nurse and a soldier. While the White House initially remained silent, the backlash from prominent conservative and Christian figures was swift. Sean Feucht, a Christian activist and worship leader, took to social media to demand the post's removal. "This should be deleted immediately," Feucht wrote. "There's no context where this is acceptable." Former MAGA ally and activist Riley Gaines echoed the sentiment, stating, "God shall not be mocked... a little humility would serve him well." Even within religious media, the critique was sharp. David Brody, a journalist with the Christian Broadcasting Network, noted that while supporters may back Trump’s mission, this image "crosses the line." Confronted by reporters at the White House, President Trump denied any religious intent, claiming he viewed the image as a secular tribute to healthcare. "I did post it. And I thought it was me as a doctor," Trump told reporters. "It's supposed to be like a doctor making people better. And I do make people better. I make people a lot better." He later told CBS News he removed the post because "people were confused," though he stopped short of an apology. The controversy erupted just hours after Trump launched a verbal broadside against Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff. The Pope has become a vocal critic of the ongoing US-Israeli military operation in Iran, dubbed "Operation Epic Fury," which saw a 40-day campaign of strikes aimed at Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure. Trump labeled the Pope "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy" on Truth Social, suggesting the pontiff was "catering to the radical left." Responding from the papal plane, Pope Leo XIV remained steadfast.  "I have no fear of the Trump administration," the Pope said. "I will continue to speak out loudly about the message of the Gospel... 'Blessed are the peacemakers.'" Trump Truth Social Jesus post

CAPE TOWN  — In a landmark moment for Southern African heritage and restorative justice, South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has officially repatriated the final Zimbabwe Soapstone Bird and the remains of several ancestors to Zimbabwe. The handover ceremony took place yesterday, Tuesday, 14 April 2026, at the Iziko South African Museum in Cape Town. The repatriation follows a direct order from President Cyril Ramaphosa, ensuring the sacred artifacts return home just in time for Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Day commemorations this Saturday. Receiving the artifacts on behalf of the Zimbabwean government, Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Reverend Paul Bayethe Damasane, delivered a moving address highlighting the deep spiritual weight of the return. "These are not merely scientific specimens," Rev Damasane said. "They represent lived histories and the sacred identities of our people. Their removal disrupted the spiritual continuum that binds our communities to their ancestors." The remains belong to individuals taken from regions including Chivhu, Goromonzi, Mazowe, Kwekwe, and Mberengwa. Minister McKenzie noted that among the remains was a tribal chief whose skull had been kept in a museum drawer for 116 years. "He was somebody's leader... returning these treasures is about restoring dignity," McKenzie stated. The returned soapstone sculpture, known as the Hungwe (Fish Eagle), is the last of eight original birds taken from the Great Zimbabwe world heritage site during the colonial plunder of the late 19th century. Historical Context: Carved between the 11th and 15th centuries, the birds served as spiritual guardians of the Shona civilization. Colonial Theft: The artifact being returned today was taken nearly 140 years ago and was historically linked to Cecil John Rhodes. National Symbolism: The Zimbabwe Bird remains the country’s most iconic emblem, appearing on the national flag, currency, and coat of arms. This act of restitution signals a strengthening of ties between Harare and Pretoria. Rev Damasane called for "deeper cooperation" in heritage research and conservation, while Minister McKenzie emphasized that "the soul of a nation lives in its heritage." As the birds finally reunite at Great Zimbabwe, the move is being hailed by historians as a major victory for the global push to decolonize African museums. Zimbabwe Soapstone Bird repatriation 2026

HARARE – The SCCDT Southerton Constituency Community Development Trust (SCCDT) has partnered with Stella Park International Academy in Burundi to facilitate the recruitment of Zimbabwean teachers, in a move aimed at expanding employment opportunities and strengthening regional ties. The initiative will see qualified teachers from Southerton Constituency and beyond being considered for teaching positions at the Cibitoke-based institution. Speaking to Southerton Business Times, SCCDT chairman Andrew Makahamadze said the partnership was a result of long-standing relations with Burundian education stakeholders. “It was recognition from our long-time friend and brother Parfait Nahimana who chose to support Southerton Constituency,” Makahamadze said. He added that the programme aligns with the trust’s broader vision of job creation and economic empowerment. “We want to be one of the biggest facilitators of employment and complement Government’s vision of attaining an upper-middle-income economy by 2030,” he said. The recruitment drive targets qualified high school teachers across multiple disciplines, including Mathematics, English, Biology, and other core subjects. At least eight teaching positions are expected to be filled in the initial phase. Candidates will be required to submit their curriculum vitae and undergo a rigorous vetting process. “We have qualified adjudicators who will assess applications. We will also work with relevant authorities to ensure we select the best performers who will lift the Zimbabwean flag high,” Makahamadze said. The initiative is also seen as part of Zimbabwe’s broader diplomatic and economic engagement strategy under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “engage and re-engage” policy. Makahamadze said the partnership would not only create jobs but also strengthen bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and Burundi. “It will solidify our relations with Burundi while also transforming families, as teachers will remit foreign currency back home. The impact will be both at household and national level,” he said. SCDT emphasised that the process will be conducted transparently, with collaboration between Zimbabwean and Burundian authorities to ensure legitimacy and protect applicants. “We are very conscious of recruitment scams. That is why we will work closely with government agencies and the Burundi Embassy to ensure a seamless and secure process,” Makahamadze said. The trust confirmed that the programme is still a work in progress, with systems being put in place to ensure compliance and efficiency. The development follows a recent deployment of Zimbabwean teachers to Rwanda, highlighting the growing demand for the country’s educators across Africa. Education experts say Zimbabwean teachers are widely regarded for their strong training and adaptability, making them competitive in international markets. As recruitment begins, interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the academy’s official channels, as Zimbabwe continues to export skilled professionals to the region. Zimbabwean teachers recruitment Burundi

ZAKA  — Residents in Ward 24 under Chief Bota have been urged to exercise extreme caution following the sighting of at least two elephants roaming the Charuka and Chipfuti areas early Tuesday morning, in a development that has heightened fears over rising human-wildlife conflict in rural Zimbabwe. The sightings, confirmed by local authorities, prompted an urgent response from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), with rangers deployed to monitor the animals and prevent potential harm to residents. Ward 24 Councillor Zivanai Zvada said the elephants were first spotted around 3:00 AM in the Chipfuti area before moving towards Charuka by 5:00 AM. “Many suspect they could be hiding near Charuka Dam, where there is plenty of vegetation for camouflage,” Zvada said. Villagers have since reported fresh dung and footprints, suggesting the animals remain in the vicinity. Zaka South legislator Clemence Chiduwa confirmed that he alerted ZimParks immediately after receiving reports from the community. Rangers are expected to track the elephants and, if necessary, guide them back to protected wildlife areas. Wildlife experts say elephants can travel long distances in search of food and water, especially during dry periods, increasing the likelihood of encounters with humans. Local leaders have issued strict safety guidelines to minimise risk: Avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night Keep livestock away from dense bush and water sources Do not attempt to approach or provoke the animals “These animals can be unpredictable. Any form of provocation can result in fatal consequences,” Zvada warned. The incident comes amid growing concern over human-wildlife conflict in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural districts bordering wildlife corridors. According to ZimParks, dozens of lives were lost in 2025 due to encounters with wild animals, with elephants accounting for a significant proportion of the fatalities. Environmental analyst Farai Mupfumi said increasing pressure on natural resources is driving wildlife closer to human settlements. “Climate change, habitat loss and population pressures are forcing animals out of protected areas. Communities like Zaka are now on the frontline of this crisis,” he said. Zimbabwe recently launched the Elephant Management Plan (2026–2035), aimed at addressing conflict hotspots through improved monitoring systems, community awareness, and sustainable wildlife management strategies. Authorities say community cooperation remains critical in preventing further incidents. As the situation unfolds, residents in Ward 24 have been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings to authorities immediately. elephants spotted Zaka Ward 24

BEITBRIDGE  — A sophisticated attempt to smuggle industrial-grade explosives into South Africa was thwarted on Monday, April 13, 2026, following a high-stakes joint operation at the Beitbridge Port of Entry. The operation, which involved the Border Management Authority (BMA), the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the South African Revenue Service (SARS), led to the discovery of a massive cache of mining explosives concealed in a modified truck trailer. The drama unfolded during a routine inspection of a truck entering South Africa from the Zimbabwean side. When questioned about his cargo, the driver claimed to be transporting "scrap material." However, sharp-eyed officials noticed irregularities in the trailer's structure. A thorough search revealed: Bulk mining explosives. Cap fuse Carmex. Detonator fuses. Estimated Total Value: Approximately R1 million (US$53,000). As the inspection intensified and the concealed compartments were breached, the driver attempted to flee the scene on foot. He was swiftly apprehended by BMA officials and handed over to the police. The intercepted materials are of the type frequently utilized in illegal mining ( zama zamas ) and high-stakes cash-in-transit (CIT) heists, which have seen a resurgence in the SADC region. The explosives have been handed over to the SAPS Musina Explosives Unit. Investigators are currently working to trace the origin of the materials suspected to be from regional mining operations and their intended destination within South Africa. Beitbridge explosives interception 2026