Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
IN a twist straight out of a drama series, a 49-year-old medical doctor, a man sworn to heal, has been arrested for allegedly getting high on mutoriro, the very poison wrecking Zimbabwean communities.
Dr Farikai Manjeya was busted at his Gweru lodgings, popularly known as the “doctors’ cottages,” allegedly puffing crystal meth with three younger pals, Tafara Chigoya (28), Kudakwashe Godknows Mutata (29) and Tariro Pambwa (35).
According to the National Prosecuting Authority OF Zimbabwe (NPAZ), detectives stormed the cottage on 9 November after receiving a tip-off about strange smoke and wild behaviour.
“When the detectives arrived, they found the accused persons smoking crystal meth using J-pipes and cigarette lighters,” said the NPAZ. “They were immediately arrested and the pipes, a lighter and an empty sachet were seized.”
Now, here’s where it gets messy. Mutoriro, as crystal meth is known on the streets, is a powerful stimulant that sends users into overdrive — sleepless, restless and often reckless. It’s one of the most dangerous and addictive drugs, illegal under Zimbabwe’s Dangerous Drugs Act. Possession or use can land offenders in jail for years.
What’s shocking is that a man of science, trained to save lives, is now standing shoulder to shoulder with suspected junkies. If a doctor can fall to mutoriro, what hope is there for the youth?
The arrests come hot on the heels of Zimbabwe’s new anti-drug drive, with Government rolling out the National Drug and Substance Abuse Taskforce, tasked with smashing supply chains and rehabilitating users. The taskforce has vowed to go after suppliers, peddlers and users alike — no sacred cows.
The NPAZ urged citizens to stay alert and report drug activity.
“Our communities must work hand in hand with law enforcement to stop drug abuse and safeguard our youth,” the statement read.
The quartet remains in custody pending a bail hearing.
Looks like the good doctor will be swapping his white coat for prison greens, all for chasing the mutoriro high!
