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Speaker Thoko Didiza National Assembly of South Africa has agreed on the composition of a special Section 89 committee that will determine whether there is prima facie evidence to proceed with impeachment proceedings against Cyril Ramaphosa over the controversial Phala Phala scandal. The decision was finalised during a meeting of Parliament’s Chief Whips’ Forum on Wednesday, with political parties agreeing on a 31-member committee structure designed to reflect party representation in the National Assembly. Under the agreed formula: African National Congress (ANC) will hold nine seats Democratic Alliance (DA) will have five seats uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MK Party) will receive three seats Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) will hold two seats The remaining 12 seats will be distributed among smaller political parties represented in Parliament. However, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) and GOOD will not be represented on the committee because both parties currently participate in Ramaphosa’s executive, creating what the parties described as potential conflicts of interest. Parliament said the committee’s composition was guided by National Assembly Rule 154(1), which requires committees to broadly reflect political party strength in the House. According to parliamentary documents: “The effect of giving each party represented in the Assembly a minimum of one member to enable participation by all is that it skews the proportional strength of the House in favour of smaller parties.” Thoko Didiza is now expected to formally request political parties to submit nominations for MPs who will serve on the committee. A proposal to establish a smaller 14-member panel was rejected during deliberations. Under that alternative arrangement: The ANC would have held five seats The DA has three seats MK Party has two seats EFF one seat The remaining smaller parties would have collectively shared only three seats. Opposition parties reportedly argued that the larger committee would allow broader parliamentary representation during proceedings of major constitutional significance. The development follows Ramaphosa’s announcement earlier this week that he intends to seek a judicial review of the independent panel's findings after the Constitutional Court of South Africa overturned Parliament’s 2022 decision blocking impeachment proceedings. The independent panel, chaired by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, previously found prima facie evidence suggesting Ramaphosa may have: Violated the Constitution Committed serious misconduct Failed to properly account for the theft of foreign currency from his Phala Phala farm in Limpopo in 2020 Meanwhile, Vuyo Zungula, leader of the African Transformation Movement (ATM), has written to Didiza requesting that a motion of no confidence against Ramaphosa also be tabled. Zungula warned against attempts to weaken Parliament’s constitutional oversight role through delays and legal tactics. “The speaker of the National Assembly now carries a historic responsibility to defend the integrity of Parliament,” Zungula said. He further urged political parties committed to accountability to resist attempts to frustrate parliamentary processes through procedural manoeuvres. The Section 89 committee is expected to play a critical role in determining whether South Africa proceeds toward one of the country’s most politically significant impeachment processes since the democratic era began. Cyril Ramaphosa impeachment

Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Sleiman Timios Kwidini has criticised nurses dancing in uniform, saying the behaviour undermines the dignity and professional standing of healthcare workers. Kwidini’s remarks follow a viral controversy involving Tinotenda Tungwarara, daughter of businessman and presidential adviser Paul Tungwarara, who handed out US$100 notes to nurses during an event at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. Videos circulating on social media showed uniformed nurses performing the popular “Borrowdale” dance to music by sungura musician Alick Macheso, while Tinotenda selected dancers she believed performed best before rewarding them with cash. Speaking during International Nurses Day commemorations at The Avenues Clinic this week, Kwidini urged nurses to maintain professional decorum while in uniform. “Ngatitambei chibhasikoro tisiri mu uniform. Zvinotibvisa chiremera,” Kwidini said. Translated from Shona, the statement means: “Let us not dance to music while in uniform. It is degrading.” His comments drew attention to growing debate around professional dignity, economic hardship, and public conduct within Zimbabwe’s struggling healthcare sector. The incident sparked widespread criticism online, with many Zimbabweans describing the scenes as humiliating and disrespectful to healthcare professionals already battling difficult working conditions and low wages. Critics said the spectacle reduced trained medical professionals to entertainers performing for money in front of political elites and wealthy figures. Others described the scenes as symbolic of deepening inequality in Zimbabwe, where essential workers continue to struggle financially while politically connected individuals publicly display wealth. Several social media users accused authorities of allowing the erosion of professional standards and dignity in public institutions. The controversy comes at a time when many nurses in Zimbabwe continue pushing for improved salaries and working conditions. Healthcare workers reportedly earn an average of around US$262 per month in hard currency, an amount many say is insufficient to meet rising living costs. Labour analysts say worsening economic pressures have left many civil servants vulnerable and financially desperate, contributing to situations where professionals may feel compelled to participate in public displays for financial reward. Healthcare unions have repeatedly warned that low salaries, staff shortages, and deteriorating hospital conditions are fuelling frustration within the sector. The Parirenyatwa incident has reignited wider debate about political patronage, public image, and the treatment of professionals in Zimbabwe. Critics argue that while philanthropy and donations to hospitals are welcome, public acts that appear to turn struggling workers into spectacles risk damaging morale and public respect for professions such as nursing. Others defended the nurses, arguing that economic hardship leaves workers with limited choices and that blame should not fall solely on individuals trying to survive difficult conditions. Meanwhile, Kwidini’s remarks appear to signal growing concern within government circles over the optics and public fallout generated by the incident. Sleiman Kwidini

A new US$40 million Cheetos manufacturing plant, together with a juice and dairy blending facility, has officially opened in Zimbabwe, in a move authorities say strengthens the country’s industrialisation and manufacturing ambitions. The project was launched by Emmerson Mnangagwa and developed by Varun Beverages, one of the largest beverage bottling companies operating in Africa and Asia. Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Mnangagwa described the investment as a sign of growing investor confidence in Zimbabwe’s economy. “The added US$20 million investment by Varun Beverages marks industrial diversification, creation of employment opportunities for our people and manufacturing sector integration into both regional and global value chains,” Mnangagwa said. Authorities say the new snack manufacturing facility and beverage blending plant form part of Zimbabwe’s broader industrialisation strategy under Vision 2030. According to company officials, Varun Beverages has expanded significantly since entering the Zimbabwean market around eight years ago. President Mnangagwa said the company initially operated a single production line producing approximately 10 million bottles monthly, but has now grown to six production lines with capacity reaching nearly 120 million bottles per month. The expansion has reportedly created around 2,000 direct jobs and an estimated 13,000 indirect employment opportunities across sectors, including: Transport and logistics Retail and distribution Agriculture supply chains Informal trading networks Ravi Jaipuria also announced an ambitious US$650 million investment programme planned over the next five years. The investments are expected to target: Renewable energy projects Recycling infrastructure Beverage and brewing operations Manufacturing expansion Jaipuria revealed that construction of a 130-megawatt green energy project in Matobo has already begun, with projected costs estimated between US$300 million and US$350 million. “We are putting up a recyclable PET plant. After putting that plant, imports will reduce substantially, and we will be exporting to other countries from here,” Jaipuria said. Nqobizitha Ndlovu said the new manufacturing facilities are expected to strengthen local agricultural value chains by increasing demand for raw materials sourced from Zimbabwean farmers. The upcoming juice and dairy blending plant is expected to create additional opportunities for: Dairy farmers Fruit growers Packaging suppliers Rural transport operators Government officials say the facilities will also help reduce imports while boosting export potential into regional markets. Company executives say strong demand for locally manufactured Cheetos products has already demonstrated Zimbabwe’s potential to become a regional manufacturing and processing hub. Economic analysts say the investment comes at a time when Zimbabwe is seeking to revive domestic manufacturing capacity, attract foreign direct investment, and reduce reliance on imports. The project is also expected to support wider industrial integration into regional and international supply chains. Cheetos plant Zimbabwe

Baba Johanne Masowe In a judgment delivered by Justice Regis Dembure, the court found that the March 10 decision approving the exhumation of Peter Jack Masedza, widely known as Baba Johanne Masowe, from a shrine in Gandanzara, Rusape, violated provisions of the Administrative Justice Act. “It is declared that the decision… giving authority to third and fourth respondents to exhume the remains… is in violation of section 3(1) of the Administrative Justice Act and is accordingly set aside,” Justice Dembure ruled. The long-running dispute involves the Gospel of God Church International and Masowe’s sons, Magaga and Reuben Masedza, who have sought for years to rebury their father away from the church shrine where he was interred in 1973. According to the ruling, the Registrar who authorised the exhumation acted on the mistaken belief that earlier court judgments had already approved the removal of the remains. “There was no such order, the courts had merely confirmed the third and fourth respondents’ procedural right to seek exhumation before the Minister, subject to due process being followed,” Dembure said. The court further ruled that mandatory procedures outlined in the Cemeteries Act had not been followed. Justice Dembure noted that the law requires notices of intended exhumation to be published in the Government Gazette and newspapers for three consecutive months. “The provisions of s38(5) of the Cemeteries Act are peremptory. The law is clear that anything done contrary to peremptory statutory provisions is a nullity,” the judge ruled. The court also criticised a public notice issued by one of Masowe’s sons inviting objections within 30 days, saying the process failed to comply with statutory requirements. “That is not the process undertaken in terms of s38(5) of the Cemeteries Act,” Dembure said. The exhumation had been scheduled for April 2 before the church launched an urgent application to stop the process. The legal battle over the influential religious leader’s burial site has spanned more than two decades. In 2003, one of Masowe’s sons unsuccessfully sought access to the shrine to visit his father’s grave, while renewed litigation emerged in 2023 after the family formally pursued exhumation and reburial plans. Justice Dembure ruled that the matter must now return to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage for a lawful determination after all parties have been heard. The court also ordered Masowe’s sons to pay legal costs. Johanne Masowe exhumation

Four people were killed and four others injured early Wednesday morning after an Asian Star bus collided head-on with a Mercedes-Benz Atego truck along the busy Harare–Masvingo Road. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the fatal road traffic accident occurred at approximately 1:30 AM on May 13, 2026, near the 220-kilometre peg close to Mvuma. According to police, the Asian Star bus was travelling from Masvingo to Harare carrying 60 passengers when the driver allegedly attempted to avoid hitting a pedestrian who was on the roadway. In the process, the bus reportedly crossed into the oncoming lane and collided head-on with the truck, which had two occupants on board. In an official statement, police said: “The driver of an Asian Star bus travelling from Masvingo to Harare with 60 passengers on board attempted to avoid hitting a pedestrian, encroached onto the oncoming lane and was involved in a head-on collision with a Mercedes-Benz Atego truck carrying two passengers.” The violent impact caused the bus to veer off the road, overturn, and land on its side. Police said the truck subsequently struck the same pedestrian the bus driver had allegedly tried to avoid. Authorities confirmed that four people died at the scene. The victims included: The truck driver Two passengers are travelling in the truck The pedestrian Four passengers travelling on the bus sustained injuries and were taken for medical treatment. The bodies of the deceased were transported to Mvuma Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examinations. The latest fatal collision has once again raised concerns over road safety along the Harare–Masvingo Highway, one of Zimbabwe’s busiest transport corridors. The route has recorded numerous fatal accidents in recent years involving buses, haulage trucks, and pedestrians, particularly during night travel. Road safety campaigners continue to urge authorities to improve highway lighting, pedestrian awareness, and enforcement against dangerous driving. Transport experts say fatigue, speeding, poor visibility, and pedestrians walking along highways at night remain major contributing factors in many accidents across Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, the ZRP has urged motorists to exercise caution and remain vigilant, especially at night. Investigations into the crash are continuing. Harare Masvingo Road accident

A 35-year-old former fugitive accused of unleashing months of violence in Guruve has pleaded guilty to 10 serious criminal charges, including rape, attempted murder, and robbery. Anymore Zvitsva appeared in court on Wednesday, May 13, where he admitted to the offences and is expected to return on Thursday for a pre-sentence hearing. According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), Zvitsva carried out what prosecutors described as a “calculated and brutal” series of attacks between October and December 2025. Prosecutors say Zvitsva targeted vulnerable victims during his alleged crime spree, including a 14-year-old juvenile and a 62-year-old woman. Court documents allege that in several incidents, he used shoelaces, wire, and snare cables to restrain victims before dragging them into isolated mountain or bush areas where the attacks occurred. The NPAZ said weapons, including knives, spears, and snare wire, were used to overpower victims. Among the 10 charges are five counts of attempted murder. Prosecutors allege Zvitsva stabbed some victims in the neck, chest, and abdomen while strangling others with snare wire until they lost consciousness. Authorities say the attacks displayed extreme violence and deliberate intent to inflict serious harm. In some cases, Zvitsva allegedly broke into homes at night while wearing a balaclava and attacked sleeping residents. One incident reportedly involved a man being struck with a machete before the suspect stole small household items, including a cigarette lighter, cigarettes, and a soft drink. Police say Zvitsva’s months-long “reign of terror” finally ended following his arrest on January 3, 2026. Investigators said the suspect later led police to multiple crime scenes during follow-up investigations. In one instance, officers reportedly recovered a victim’s red T-shirt hidden beneath a log near an anthill. The case shocked residents across Guruve, where communities had reportedly been living in fear during the period of the attacks. The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed that Zvitsva still faces additional murder-related charges that are expected to be referred to the High Court. “These are grave offences committed with extreme cruelty, and the justice system remains committed to ensuring the safety of the Guruve community,” the NPAZ said. Legal analysts say the guilty plea may influence sentencing proceedings, although the seriousness and violent nature of the offences are likely to weigh heavily during sentencing. The case has also reignited debate around violent crime in remote rural communities and the challenges police face in tracking dangerous suspects operating across isolated areas. Residents in Guruve have welcomed the arrest and prosecution, with many expressing relief that the accused is now in custody. Guruve fugitive

Former Walter Mzembi has been acquitted of criminal abuse of office charges after the High Court ruled that prosecutors failed to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. The judgment marks a significant legal victory for the former Tourism Minister, who had faced allegations linked to the distribution of public-viewing television sets to churches during his tenure in government. Delivering the ruling, High Court judge Benjamin Chikowero said the State had only managed to establish that Mzembi was a public officer but failed to prove the remaining legal elements necessary for conviction. “The State has failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt. The accused is found not guilty and acquitted,” Chikowero ruled. Mzembi had been accused of unlawfully donating four government-owned television sets to churches, including United Family International Church, Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries, and Zion Christian Church. Prosecutors alleged the donations prejudiced the government and amounted to criminal abuse of duty as a public officer under Section 174(1) of Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. However, the court found critical weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and witness testimony. Judge Chikowero said State witnesses Zvinechimwe Churu and Thokozile Chitepo were credible but ultimately unable to directly implicate Mzembi. The judge noted that neither witness could confirm whether Mzembi personally authorised the alleged donations. “In short, the two were not relevant witnesses to assist in the State’s case. The State’s failure not to call other witnesses was fatal to its case,” Chikowero said. A major issue in the case involved former Tourism permanent secretary Margaret Sangarwe, who authored a memorandum proposing the allocation of 40 television sets to rural communities and churches. The judge said the State’s failure to call Sangarwe as a witness severely weakened the prosecution. “Sangarwe would have been a material witness to explain if the accused is the one who authorised donation. The State chose not to call her at its own peril,” the judge ruled. The court also heard evidence from former Tourism permanent secretary Florence Nhekairo, who conducted an asset verification exercise. Nhekairo confirmed that the television sets remained listed as government property within the ministry's inventory records. Finance director Richford Lovemore Nyamakura also testified that the permanent secretary would have been central in clarifying who authorised the allocation of the equipment. Judge Chikowero further criticised investigating officer Eric Chacha, describing the investigations as inadequately conducted. The court additionally found that testimony from Admire Mango did not directly implicate Mzembi in wrongdoing. In his defence, Mzembi argued that the television distribution programme formed part of a broader government tourism recovery strategy introduced after Zimbabwe’s 2008 political and economic crisis. He told the court the initiative emerged during preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, when public fan parks were established across Zimbabwe to attract tourism activity linked to the tournament hosted in neighbouring South Africa. According to Mzembi, the equipment was later repurposed to support religious tourism initiatives with approval from senior government officials during the Government of National Unity period. He maintained that the programme contributed to improved tourism arrivals and increased revenues before he left office in 2017. The acquittal now closes another high-profile corruption-related case involving a former Cabinet minister, while also raising renewed questions around the quality of investigations and prosecutions in politically sensitive matters. Walter Mzembi acquitted

The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) says it has cleared more than US$4 million owed to farmers for 2025 wheat deliveries and pledged to improve payment timelines going forward. The announcement comes as the government intensifies efforts to boost wheat production and strengthen national food security ahead of the 2026 winter cropping season. GMB chief executive Edson Badarai said Treasury had released funding to settle all outstanding United States dollar obligations linked to last year’s wheat intake. “The GMB is delighted to announce that it has received US$4.31 million to clear wheat deliveries United States dollar obligations, and US$0.944 million clearing current deliveries of summer cereals that were delivered from this April 2026; totalling US$5.254 million,” Badarai said. According to the GMB, the funding package includes US$4.31 million allocated toward outstanding wheat payments and nearly US$1 million for current summer cereal deliveries made since April 2026. Badarai described the disbursement as a major relief for farmers who had waited months for payment. “This vital funding by the Treasury brings much-needed relief to farmers. The support underscores the Government’s steadfast commitment to agriculture,” he said. The delayed payments had raised concern among producers, particularly commercial wheat farmers who rely on timely settlement to finance inputs, fuel, labour, and irrigation costs for the next planting season. Despite welcoming the payment clearance, farmers’ representatives warned that long payment delays remain a major threat to production confidence. Graeme Murdoch, chairperson of the Food Crop Contractors Association (FCCA), said it was difficult for farmers to plan effectively when payments took several months to process. “It is good news that all outstanding wheat payments have been made, but farmers cannot confidently plant wheat if they have to wait eight months to be paid,” Murdoch said. Agricultural analysts say cash flow remains one of the biggest challenges affecting Zimbabwe’s grain sector, especially for winter wheat production, which depends heavily on irrigation and imported inputs. In an effort to restore confidence, the GMB says it now expects to pay farmers within 30 days of grain delivery. “Going forward, GMB anticipates paying farmers within 30 days of delivery,” Badarai said. The board also urged farmers participating in government-supported schemes to deliver grain through official channels. Badarai encouraged producers benefiting from the Presidential Input Programme, the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA), and ARDA-managed irrigation projects to deliver produce to GMB depots and ward-based buying points. Authorities say the strategy is critical to ensuring national grain self-sufficiency. Zimbabwe has set an ambitious winter wheat target of 125,000 hectares for the 2026 season, with projected output expected to reach 662,500 tonnes. The country consumes approximately 360,000 tonnes of wheat annually, meaning successful production could generate a substantial surplus. The government has also introduced a pre-planting producer incentive of US$524.56 per tonne for winter wheat farmers. Funding for the season will come through multiple channels, including: The climate-proofed Presidential Inputs Scheme (Pfumvudza/Intwasa) Self-financed commercial farmers The National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme (NEAPS) Financing support from CBZ Holdings and AFC ARDA-supported irrigation schemes Private contractors Agricultural economists say improving payment efficiency will be crucial if Zimbabwe hopes to maintain recent gains in wheat production and reduce reliance on imports. GMB wheat payments

The Government of Zimbabwe has announced sweeping reforms targeting the country’s healthcare sector, abolishing some licence fees and reducing others in a move authorities say is aimed at lowering operational costs and improving access to medical services. The reforms were unveiled in a statement issued on May 12 by Mthuli Ncube, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion. According to the Treasury, the changes form part of a broader economic reform package approved by Cabinet targeting the health, manufacturing, financial services and real estate sectors. Authorities say the reforms are designed to reduce the financial burden on hospitals, laboratories, pharmacies, manufacturers and healthcare professionals while encouraging investment into the country’s healthcare system. Among the most significant measures announced is the abolition of Health Professions Authority (HPA) licence fees for pharmaceutical and manufacturing wholesalers. Government also confirmed that pharmacy licence fees charged by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) would be scrapped entirely. Licensing fees for hospitals, laboratories and other medical service providers will also be reduced by between 20% and 30%. In the official statement, Ncube said the reforms are intended to improve healthcare access and stimulate investment. “These interventions will lower the cost of establishing and operating healthcare facilities, thereby encouraging investment in both public and private healthcare provision,” the Finance Ministry said. The reforms affect multiple healthcare regulatory bodies and professional councils. Key measures announced include: A 25% reduction in MCAZ pharmaceutical manufacturing licence fees Reduced medicine registration fees Lower practising certificate fees under the Medical and Dental Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (MDPCZ) Abolition of MDPCZ student fees A cap of US$100 on private hospital approval letter fees A 25% reduction in medical laboratory and clinical scientist registration fees A 20% reduction in Nurses Council registration and practising fees Up to 50% reductions in Pharmacists Council registration and practising fees Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana also shared details of the reforms on X, highlighting the fee cuts affecting healthcare providers and professionals. Treasury says the measures are expected to improve the affordability and availability of medicines and healthcare services over time. Officials also believe the reforms could support the training and entry of new healthcare professionals into the sector. “The reforms are also expected to improve the availability and affordability of essential medicines and services, while supporting the training and entry of health professionals,” the ministry said. Healthcare analysts say the move could provide some relief for private healthcare operators who have faced rising compliance costs, licensing expenses and foreign currency pressures in recent years. Harare-based health economist Dr Tendai Muchengeti said reducing regulatory costs may encourage expansion within the private healthcare sector. “Lower compliance costs can improve sustainability for healthcare providers, especially smaller clinics and pharmacies struggling with operational expenses,” he said. The healthcare measures form part of a broader government strategy aimed at improving the ease of doing business under Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 programme. In the manufacturing sector, authorities announced reductions in import licence fees administered by the Ministry of Industry. Financial sector reforms include lower banking supervision fees, reduced mobile money transaction charges and the introduction of zero-cost bank accounts for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Meanwhile, in the real estate sector, government also announced reductions in contractor registration fees and the removal of some building permit requirements. Treasury says the overall objective is to stimulate investment, productivity, and economic growth. “Government seeks to unlock productivity, stimulate investment and drive sustainable economic growth,” the ministry stated. Zimbabwe health sector reforms

A vehicle was struck by a locomotive at the Chiremba Road level crossing early Friday morning in what has become the second accident at the same railway crossing within a week. According to the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ), the collision occurred at approximately 5:25 AM. Authorities said no injuries were reported, although the vehicle sustained damage, including a shattered windscreen. The NRZ described the recurring accidents at the crossing as deeply concerning, warning that some motorists continue ignoring road safety rules requiring drivers to give way to approaching trains. “Drivers must give way to approaching trains,” the NRZ said in a statement issued after the incident. Rail officials said the repeated crashes highlight growing negligence among road users at level crossings, particularly during early morning hours when visibility may be reduced. The latest incident comes barely a week after another vehicle was hit by a train at the same crossing, intensifying calls for stricter adherence to railway safety regulations. The Chiremba Road crossing has now become a focus of public concern as residents and motorists question whether enough warning systems and enforcement measures are in place to prevent collisions. Road safety experts say railway crossing accidents are often caused by motorists attempting to beat approaching trains or failing to stop, look and listen before crossing tracks. Harare-based transport analyst Tawanda Murenje said repeated collisions at the same location should trigger urgent safety reviews. “When accidents occur repeatedly at one crossing within a short period, authorities must assess whether visibility, signage, barriers or driver behaviour are contributing factors,” he said. Commuters who regularly use the route say low visibility before sunrise, combined with driver impatience during rush-hour traffic buildup, may contribute to dangerous decisions at the crossing. One nearby resident said many motorists underestimate the speed and stopping distance of trains. “Some drivers think they can cross before the train arrives, but trains move faster than people realise, especially early in the morning,” the resident said. The NRZ has repeatedly warned motorists that locomotives require significantly longer stopping distances compared to ordinary vehicles, making it difficult for train operators to avoid collisions once a vehicle enters the tracks. Transport safety advocates are now calling for increased public awareness campaigns around railway crossing safety, particularly in urban areas where vehicle congestion and commuter pressure are high. Some residents have also suggested the installation of additional warning lights, boom gates or traffic enforcement measures at high-risk crossings across Harare. Zimbabwe has recorded several train-related accidents over the years, with authorities frequently attributing many incidents to human error and failure to observe railway regulations. As investigations into Friday’s collision continue, the NRZ says motorists must remain vigilant and fully comply with traffic rules at all level crossings to prevent avoidable accidents. Chiremba Road train accident

HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested four suspected drug dealers at a truck stop along Simon Mazorodze Road in Harare following a high-stakes raid that yielded 40 kilogrammes of mbanje (dagga). The operation, conducted on Monday, is part of a broader nationwide offensive against drug trafficking and substance abuse. Detectives from the CID Drugs and Narcotics unit acted on gathered intelligence to intercept the suspects at the busy transit point. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the recovery of the 40kg contraband and identified the apprehended individuals as: Christina Mazango Chelusi Saidi Priscilla Matros Joseph Mangwende The crackdown extended to the Bulawayo–Harare Road, where police intercepted another group at Sharona Park. Howard Chiweshe, Tanaka Tasara, Valerie Manyura, and Regard Gumbo were taken into custody after allegedly being found with mbanje and bottles of Boncleer cough syrup. In a related incident at the Hwedza turn-off, police intercepted a bus and arrested Garikai Guruvaza. He was allegedly found in possession of Astra Pain cough syrup, which authorities believe was being transported illegally. Meanwhile, in Bulawayo, detectives arrested Reason Mpande for the unlawful possession and cultivation of mbanje. Following a search at his workplace that uncovered loose dagga, Mpande led officers to his residence, where a mbanje field was discovered. All suspects are expected to appear in court as investigations into the various supply chains continue. ZRP drug arrests Harare Simon Mazorodze

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says it never issued a widely circulated statement regarding alleged suspects linked to the assault of lawyer and politician Douglas Coltart. In a statement issued on Monday, May 11, police warned the public against relying on fake press releases being circulated online under the ZRP name. Authorities said investigations were now underway to identify individuals responsible for creating and distributing the false statements. “The police are fully aware of these activities and investigations are currently underway to identify the people responsible for creating and distributing the fake statements,” the ZRP said. The police urged Zimbabweans to verify information through official ZRP communication channels and cautioned that legal action would be taken against individuals spreading false information. “The public is urged to rely only on official communication channels for accurate information,” police said. “The law will take its course against anyone found responsible for publishing or circulating false information, regardless of where those individuals are located.” The statement comes amid growing debate online following the circulation of an alleged police press release connected to the assault case involving Coltart. The disputed statement, widely shared on social media, claimed police were searching for individuals identified as Luckmore Gapa and Nicholas Hamadziripi. It also referenced a group calling itself the “Presidential Mafia” and claimed authorities had added social media personality Majaira Jairosi to a wanted list. The fake statement further alleged police had arrested individuals identified as Takunda Mhuka, Emmanuel Sitima and Godfrey Karembera. However, the ZRP has now formally dismissed the document as fraudulent. Majaira Jairosi had earlier shared the statement on X before police publicly distanced themselves from it. Despite denying the circulating statement, police have not yet issued an official update regarding the investigation into Coltart’s assault. The incident, which was captured on video and widely circulated online, sparked public outrage and political debate. Reports circulating on social media alleged that individuals linked to ZANU PF were involved in the confrontation, although authorities have not officially confirmed identities or charges. Political analysts say the spread of fake statements under the names of state institutions reflects growing concerns around misinformation and political disinformation on social media platforms. Harare-based media researcher Tendai Chikova said false statements can easily inflame political tensions. “When fake police statements begin circulating during politically sensitive incidents, it creates confusion, undermines public trust and complicates legitimate investigations,” he said. The incident highlights the increasing challenge faced by authorities and media organisations in verifying information shared online, particularly during politically charged events. Cybersecurity and media experts say fake government statements have become more sophisticated, often mimicking official formatting and branding to appear authentic. The ZRP says investigations into the origins of the fake statement are continuing. Douglas Coltart assault