Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana in Hwange
A DOMESTIC dispute in Binga took an unexpected twist after police investigating an alleged arson case discovered more than nine kilogrammes of processed dagga and an illegal dagga plantation, leading to the arrest of a man and his stepson.
Nguguko Moyo (46) and his stepson, Nomatter Nyathi (28), both of Lusulu in Binga District, have appeared in court facing charges of cultivating and possessing dangerous drugs in contravention of Section 157 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
Matabeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda confirmed the arrests.
“On June 13, 2026, police in Lusulu arrested the two suspects, Nguguko Moyo (46) and Nomatter Nyathi (28), for cultivating and possessing dagga. The arrests followed investigations after a misunderstanding between the two resulted in Nyathi allegedly torching Moyo’s bedroom,” he said.
Insp Banda said police officers who attended the scene to investigate the alleged arson stumbled upon a stash of processed dagga.
“During investigations, officers recovered 9,23 kilogrammes of processed dagga stored in four 20-litre buckets and a sack belonging to Nyathi. He later led police to a garden where Moyo had allegedly cultivated dagga plants,” he said.
The two men were immediately arrested and charged.
They have since appeared before the courts and were remanded in custody to June 30 while investigations continue.
Insp Banda warned members of the public against cultivating, possessing or trafficking dangerous drugs, saying offenders risk lengthy prison sentences upon conviction.
He urged communities to work closely with law enforcement agencies by reporting drug-related activities.
“The fight against drugs requires a collective effort from families, communities and all stakeholders. We continue to encourage members of the public to provide information that can assist police in dealing with drug-related crimes,” he said.
The latest arrests come as Government intensifies efforts to curb drug and substance abuse, which authorities say is increasingly affecting families and communities across the country.
Government, law enforcement agencies, traditional leaders and community organisations have in recent years stepped up awareness campaigns and law enforcement operations targeting the production, trafficking and consumption of illicit substances.
President Mnangagwa launched a national multi-sectoral campaign against drug and substance abuse in response to growing concerns over the social and economic effects of drug use, particularly among youths.
