Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
AUTHORITIES in Manicaland have dismantled 44 notorious drug bases and arrested eight suppliers since the beginning of the year, in what officials describe as an intensified crackdown on dangerous drugs and substance abuse.
The statistics were announced on Tuesday by the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, during a Press briefing at his office.
Minister Mugadza revealed that law enforcement agencies have stepped up operations targeting illegal drug networks and hotspots across the province. These efforts have led to the dismantling of multiple dealing points and the seizure of a variety of illicit substances.
He emphasised that the offensive will continue as authorities work to curb rising cases of drug and substance abuse, while dismantling supply chains that fuel the trade.
The Minister further noted that Government is collaborating with international partners to combat cross-border smuggling and dismantle organised drug syndicates, underscoring the administration’s commitment to protecting communities from the scourge of narcotics.
“Forty-four bases were dismantled and an assortment of drugs were seized. The Government is strengthening border control systems and enhancing collaboration among national agencies, as well as with regional and international partners, to dismantle organised drug syndicates,” he said, adding that authorities have arrested suppliers believed to be fuelling the spread of illicit substances in communities.
“Eight suppliers were arrested. This last month alone, 265 arrests were made compared to 249 during the same period last year,” he said, adding that of the arrested suspects, 232 were male and 33 were female.
Minister Mugadza said some of the suspects appeared before the courts, with most of them being convicted.
He identified major hotspots for drug and substance abuse in the province, including Sakubva, Penhalonga, Birchenough Bridge, Hauna, Murambinda, Chimbike and Odzi.
Minister Mugadza said the Government is strengthening systems aimed at disrupting drug trafficking networks and organised syndicates.
He said a national survey revealed worrying levels of substance abuse among citizens, especially young people.
“We are intensifying province-wide awareness campaigns to educate citizens, especially young people. The survey showed that seven percent report substance use, 4,5 percent hazardous drinking, and 1,8 percent use both,” he said.
Minister Mugadza said the Government remains deeply concerned about the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse, which continues to affect families, communities, and the nation at large.
“This problem is increasingly impacting our youths, and, not only undermining public health, safety and national productivity, but is also becoming a security threat, with one in every 30 households affected in one way or another,” he said.
He called on communities, parents, churches and development partners to actively participate in efforts to end drug and substance abuse, including reporting syndicates and peddlers.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse is everyone’s responsibility. The Government alone cannot overcome this challenge without the active participation of families, communities, the private sector, faith-based organisations and young people themselves,” he said.
Minister Mugadza urged young people to make positive life choices and seek opportunities that contribute to national development.
He also challenged parents and guardians to monitor their children closely and encouraged communities to create environments that discourage drug use.
“Parents and guardians are urged to remain vigilant and engaged in the lives of their children. Community leaders must continue to foster environments that discourage drug use and support recovery,” he said.
