Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa-Mashonaland West Bureau
A 67-year-old Mashonaland West man has been arrested after police uncovered a large dagga plantation in his maize fields, following a tip-off.
According to Mashonaland West spokesperson Inspector Ian Kohwera, police in Magunje arrested Peter Pajiri (67) of Nyamupinga Village, under Chief Dandahwa, recently for unlawfully cultivating dagga.
Police received information from concerned residents that Pajiri was growing the weed alongside his tobacco and maize.
Officers launched a follow-up operation, which led them to the suspect’s homestead, where he was apprehended.
After questioning, Pajiri allegedly admitted to cultivating the plants and led police to one of his maize fields, where five dagga plants were immediately uprooted.
However, the discovery did not end there.
During further interviews, the suspect reportedly directed officers to another maize field where a staggering 242 additional dagga plants were uprooted, bringing the total to 247 plants.
The plants had an average height of 1,75 metres, indicating they had been cultivated for some time.
Inspector Kohwera warned that police will continue cracking down on drug-related crimes across the province.
“The long arm of the law will descend heavily on anyone dealing in dangerous drugs,” he said.
“These substances are causing serious damage to communities, and police will not leave any stone unturned until offenders are brought to justice.”
Police also commended members of the public for providing crucial information that led to the arrest, urging communities to continue reporting criminal activities. The suspect is expected to appear in court soon to face charges related to the unlawful cultivation of dangerous drugs.
