Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, [email protected]
A 42-YEAR-OLD Beitbridge man has been sentenced to an effective two-and-a-half years in prison after he was caught transporting nearly 80 kilogrammes of mbanje (marijuana) in an inter-city bus, as authorities intensify a nationwide crackdown on drug trafficking.
The conviction comes amid growing concern over the surge in drug smuggling syndicates using Beitbridge — Zimbabwe’s busiest border post — and its surrounding flanks to move illegal drugs from South Africa into the country.
In recent months, law enforcement agencies have recorded a notable increase in drug peddlers smuggling crystal meth (mutoriro), prohibited cough syrups and marijuana, which are then distributed mainly in high-density suburbs in major urban centres.
The contraband is often ferried using intercity buses, light motor vehicles and commercial trucks, making detection more challenging.
The accused, Phenias Tichivangama of Khwalu 2 suburb in Beitbridge, is believed to be part of one of several syndicates involved in the illicit drug trade.
He was arrested on December 6 last year at Dulivhadzimu long-distance bus terminus while collecting his consignment.
Tichivangama appeared before Beitbridge regional magistrate Ms Charity Maphosa on Wednesday, where he was convicted on one count of unlawful dealing in dangerous drugs.
The court sentenced him to five years’ imprisonment, before conditionally suspending two-and-a-half years, leaving him to serve an effective 30 months behind bars.
Prosecuting, Mr Will Brought Muleya told the court that police acted on a tip-off indicating that Tichivangama was transporting a large consignment of mbanje aboard an intercity bus arriving at the terminus.
Detectives mounted surveillance at the bus terminus and later spotted the accused collecting sacks suspected to contain contraband.
Police approached Tichivangama and requested to search his luggage.
During the search, officers recovered 22 large and 26 small cobs of mbanje, weighing a total of 79,1 kilogrammes, concealed under blankets.
He was immediately arrested, and the drugs were seized as exhibits.
