Chronicle Editor
Mkhululi Ncube, Chronicle writer
A smuggling racket was foiled at the Plumtree Border Post when police intercepted three South African-registered vehicles loaded with smuggled goods worth over R600 000.
The goods, comprising grocery items, alcohol, building materials, and furniture, were smuggled into Zimbabwe from South Africa.
Officer Commanding police in Bulilima and Mangwe districts Chief Superintendent Cabinet Thomas, confirmed the arrest of three suspects: Mcedisi Ndlovu (36), of Tshabanda area in Tsholotsho, Bhekithemba Nyoni (43) of Nketa 7 suburb in Bulawayo, and Tazoona Muza (39) of Nkulumane 12, Bulawayo.
They were taken to Plumtree Police Station.
“On Monday, between 3am and 6am at the 75km peg along the Bulawayo-Plumtree Road, our anti-smuggling team intercepted three South African-registered motor vehicles with smuggled goods,” Chief Supt Thomas said.
“Two Toyota Hilux and one Mercedes Benz Sprinter vehicles towing trailers had a bulk assortment of goods comprising building materials and groceries. The total value of the contraband is R639 800.”
Chief Supt Thomas stated that the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) assessed the smuggled goods to quantify and establish their value.
Investigations revealed that two vehicles crossed using an unofficial port of entry near Mphoengs Border Post, while the other used an official port of entry but failed to declare the goods.
The three suspects will soon appear in court.
Additionally, police intercepted a Nissan Caravan vehicle carrying 900 litres of petrol smuggled from Botswana. The driver was fined US$200, and the fuel was forfeited to the State.
“We are determined to end this scourge, and the operation will continue to curb smuggling cases along the border,” Chief Supt Thomas warned.
“Members of the public must observe stipulated procedures governing the importation of goods and services from a foreign country into Zimbabwe. Anyone who chooses unauthorised routes will face the full wrath of the law.”
Recent cases of smuggling at Plumtree Border Post include the confiscation of 2,100 litres of smuggled petrol in January and the recovery of five smuggled Honda Fit vehicles from Botswana in November.
In 2021, the Government outlawed importing vehicles older than 10 years to revitalise the local motor industry, reduce imports, and cut greenhouse emissions.
Under Statutory Instrument 89 of 2021, second-hand vehicles manufactured over 10 years ago, except commercial vehicles and those for agricultural purposes, are no longer permitted into Zimbabwe.
Government cited road carnage and pollution concerns. The smuggled Honda Fit vehicles were manufactured over 10 years ago, primarily used as pirate taxis, creating a market for smugglers. — @themkhust.
Online Reporter