Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
FOUR suspects have been arrested for allegedly transporting explosives and hazardous substances illegally along the Bulawayo-Plumtree Road, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed.
In a statement released by the ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the suspects were identified as Brighton Chimbidzika (40), Takunda Dzichauya (24), Meksen Ncube (70) and Giant Mudimba (49).
According to Commissioner Nyathi, alert police officers noticed that the four were transporting explosives and hazardous substances without the necessary licences and permits in contravention of the Explosives Act Chapter 10:08 and Statutory Instrument 268 of 2018.
The suspects were arrested after a bus they were travelling in was intercepted at a security roadblock at the 13-kilometre peg along the Bulawayo-Plumtree Road.
“The bus was intercepted at a security roadblock at the 13 kilometre peg along Bulawayo-Plumtree Road, leading to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of hazardous substances and explosives,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Recovered substances include sodium cyanide, caustic soda, Hydrox 500 chemicals, emulsions and capped fuses.
The arrests come following a nationwide operation by security organs targeting the illegal transportation of explosives and hazardous substances after a Toyota Quantum vehicle exploded along the Bulawayo-Esigodini Road last month, killing all the occupants.
Commissioner Nyathi warned that the transportation of explosives and hazardous substances in public service vehicles poses a serious threat to public safety, passengers, road users and communities.
He warned transport operators, including bus crews, against carrying explosives, detonators, cyanide and other hazardous substances without lawful authority and the required safety compliance measures.
“Offenders will be arrested and prosecuted without fear or favour,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
The police spokesperson further warned mining companies, suppliers and chemical companies against selling explosives, detonators, cyanide and related hazardous substances to individuals or entities without valid permits, licences and verification documents as required by law.
