Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura, Court Reporter
TWO suspected drug dealers from Bulawayo have appeared in court after they were allegedly found in possession of 37 kilogrammes of dagga valued at more than ZiG1 million.
The arrest comes as authorities intensify efforts to curb the growing drug menace across the country.
Lucias Moyo (55), of Rangemore, and Musawenkosi Donga (30), of Nketa 9 suburb, appeared before Western Commonage regional magistrate Mr Pasipanodya Maturure facing charges of unlawful dealing in dangerous drugs. They were remanded in custody to 31 December pending trial.
Prosecuting, Ms Christina Manyika told the court that on 15 December at about 4pm, detectives from the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit in Bulawayo received information that Donga had received a consignment of dagga, which he allegedly took to Moyo’s residence for safekeeping.
“The detectives acted on the information and proceeded to Moyo’s residence,” said Ms Manyika.
Upon searching the house, police recovered 76 plastic bags containing loose dagga from one of the bedrooms. Further investigations linked Donga to the offence, leading to his arrest.
“On December 16, the recovered dagga was weighed at Zimpost in Bulawayo in the presence of both accused persons and was found to weigh 37 kilogrammes, with a street value of ZiG1 110 000,” said Ms Manyika.
Zimbabwe has in recent years witnessed a surge in drug-related offences, particularly involving dagga and dangerous substances such as methamphetamine, commonly known as mutoriro. Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly raised alarm over the impact of drug abuse and trafficking on youths and communities, linking it to rising crime, health challenges and social decay.
Police have intensified operations targeting drug dealers and supply networks, conducting regular raids across the country. Authorities have also called on communities to work closely with the police by providing information that can help dismantle drug syndicates operating at neighbourhood level.
