Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
A 67-year-old man from Mashonaland West has been arrested after police uprooted 247 mbanje plants allegedly hidden in his maize fields following a tip-off from the public.
According to Mashonaland West police spokesperson, Inspector Ian Kohwera, the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Magunje arrested Peter Pajiri (67) of Nyamupinga Village under Chief Dandahwa for unlawfully cultivating dagga.
Police received information from concerned residents that Pajiri was secretly growing the illegal crop alongside his tobacco and maize.
Acting on the tip-off, officers launched a follow-up operation that led them to the suspect’s homestead, where he was apprehended.
After questioning, Pajiri allegedly admitted to cultivating the illegal plants and led police to one of his maize fields, where five dagga plants were immediately uprooted.
Further questioning reportedly led officers to another nearby maize field where 242 additional dagga plants were discovered and uprooted, bringing the total to 247 plants.
Police said the plants had an average height of about 1,75 metres, indicating they had been under cultivation for some time.
Inspector Kohwera warned that police would continue intensifying operations against drug-related crimes in the province.
“The long arm of the law will descend heavily on anyone dealing in dangerous drugs,” he said.
“These substances are causing serious damage to communities and police will not leave any stone unturned until offenders are brought to justice.”
He also commended members of the public for providing information that led to the arrest and urged communities to continue reporting criminal activities.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon facing charges of unlawful cultivation of dangerous drugs.
