Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
A WILDLIFE trafficking ring has been cracked open in Victoria Falls after two Mozambicans and a 78-year-old man from Mberengwa were caught with nine ostrich eggs worth US$9 000.
Fadzai Muyambo (43), Onai Oliase (36) and Esrom Mudzingwa (78), appeared before the Victoria Falls Magistrates’ Court where they pleaded guilty to violating Section 59 of the Parks and Wildlife Act, which prohibits the removal of any animal or its products without a permit.
According to prosecutor Daphne Ntini, the bizarre smuggling attempt began in Checheche, Chipinge, where the group allegedly harvested the eggs from the wild before embarking on a 500-kilometre journey to Victoria Falls.
On arrival, their shady business plan crumbled. Acting on a tip-off, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority detectives laid an ambush at Chinotimba Bus Rank and swooped on the suspects around 7am.
A search of their bags led to the discovery of the prized haul; nine giant ostrich eggs carefully wrapped and hidden.
“When questioned, the trio failed to produce permits authorising them to possess or transport the wildlife products,” said Ntini.
Investigations revealed that the eggs were destined for illegal sale, likely to unsuspecting tourists or cross-border buyers. The loot was taken to ZimPost Victoria Falls, where it weighed 11.95 kilograms and was valued at US$9 000.
Muyambo and Oliase were identified as unemployed Mozambican nationals, while Mudzingwa hails from Maribha Village under Chief Mapiravana in Mberengwa.
In sentencing, the magistrate slammed the trio’s actions, warning that wildlife trafficking threatens Zimbabwe’s natural heritage. Each was ordered to pay a US$300 fine or serve three months in jail.
They also received an additional three-month prison term, wholly suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour.
The rare ostrich eggs have since been secured by authorities as evidence and as a stark reminder that not every ‘egg business’ is worth the risk.
