Online Reporter
Peter Matika [email protected]
FOUR people have been arrested in Bulawayo after police allegedly recovered 1,5 kilogrammes of dagga and bottles of Broncleer cough syrup during an operation targeting drug and substance abuse in the city.
The suspects, identified as Howard Chiweshe (31) of Link Drive, Masasa, Tanaka Tasara (24) of Link Drive, Masasa, Regard Gumbo (25) of Mbizo in Kwekwe, and Valerie Manyura (32) of Makwasha in Zvishavane, are facing charges of unlawful possession of dagga and prescription preparatory medicines and allied substances.
According to police, the arrests were made on May 11 at around 10PM following a tip-off received by detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Drugs and Narcotics unit in Bulawayo.
Bulawayo Provincial spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the arrests.
She said detectives acted on information that the suspects were allegedly in possession of dagga at a park in Bulawayo.
“Acting upon the information received, detectives proceeded to the said place and conducted surveillance, leading to the identification of the accused persons,” said Insp Msebele.
“The detectives identified themselves and conducted a search on the accused persons and their vehicle, leading to the recovery of four transparent plastic sachets containing loose dagga and two 100ml bottles of Broncleer cough syrup,” she said.
Insp Msebele said the recovered dagga weighed approximately 1,5kg and had an estimated street value of ZiG45 000, while the Broncleer cough syrup was valued at approximately ZiG3 000.
The four suspects are expected to appear in court facing drug-related charges.
Inspector Msebele commended members of the public for supplying information that led to the arrests.
“We appreciate members of the public for supplying information that led to the arrest of the accused persons,” she said.
Insp Msebele warned that police would continue intensifying operations against drug traffickers and users.
“We also warn members of the public that anyone found engaging in the unlawful possession, trafficking or abuse of dangerous drugs and illicit substances will be arrested and prosecuted,” said Insp Msebele.
Zimbabwe has in recent years witnessed an increase in cases involving drug and substance abuse, particularly among youths, prompting law enforcement agencies to intensify crackdowns on illegal drug networks across the country.
