THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) K9 unit successfully intercepted seven pistols and 170 rounds of 9mm blank ammunition hidden aboard a Bulawayo-bound bus at Beitbridge Border Post.
The security operation took place during the early hours of yesterday, at approximately 3am, during a routine canine sweep at the northbound bus terminal.
The intercepted bus had originated from South Africa.
According to Zimra, the breakthrough occurred when a detector dog named Poncho signalled officers towards a suspicious area underneath the front row of passenger seats, directly behind the driver’s seat.
A detailed physical inspection of the indicated area revealed two separate parcels wrapped in black plastic and brown adhesive tape.
Inside, officers discovered the cache of seven black pistols and 170 rounds of 9mm blank ammunition.
The driver of the bus acknowledged that he had accepted the parcels in South Africa intended for delivery in Bulawayo, though he maintained that he was unaware of their unlawful contents.
Following the discovery, the driver was taken into police custody as investigations continue.
The seized firearms and ammunition hold an estimated value of R21 400 (approximately US$1 250) and were officially confiscated under Notice of Seizure 047464L.
In an official statement, Zimra underscored the critical contribution of its canine teams to national security.
“The interception demonstrates the important role of our K9 dogs in combatting smuggling of dangerous goods and other forms of illicit cross-border movement,” it said.
The authority issued a stern reminder to travellers and transport operators regarding compliance with national laws, urging the public to avoid smuggling and strictly use authorised ports of entry.
Zimra reiterated that failing to declare goods constitutes an offence under Section 182 of the Customs and Excise Act, carrying risks of heavy prosecution and the complete seizure of the involved goods.
“Zimra remains steadfast in protecting national revenue, securing the country’s borders against illicit trade and ensuring that goods entering Zimbabwe comply with applicable customs laws and regulations,” it added.
