Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Mutare Bureau
A HAULAGE truck driver who allegedly smuggled beer and foodstuffs worth about US$12 000 from Mozambique and concealed the goods in a consignment of ammonium nitrate fertiliser he was transporting has been arrested.
Wonder Chitsonga (47), who is employed by Pioneer Transport, allegedly passed through Forbes Border Post and the ZIMRA GMS without declaring the goods.
He was later intercepted by police in Mutare Central Business District after officers, who had received a tip-off, monitored his movements from the border.
Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the arrest.
On August 12, ZRP Support Unit received a tip off to the effect that a haulage truck driver was loading some beverages inside a consignment of ammonium nitrate fertiliser at Beira in Mozambique and the consignment was intended to be smuggled into Zimbabwe.
“On August 16, 2026 at 2pm, the haulage truck crossed Forbes Border Post and after undergoing initial clearance formalities the police team which was at the border followed the truck to the ZIMRA GMS Mutare.
“The police officers intercepted the truck along Park Road on its way to Mutare Central Business District soon after it had been cleared at GMS and signalled the driver to stop.
“Soon after stopping, the truck the team interviewed Chitsonga and he admitted that he had smuggled some beverages which were concealed inside a consignment of ammonium nitrate fertiliser which had been duly declared as if he was on transit to Zambia,” he said.
Chitsonga is assisting police with investigations.
The truck was subsequently driven back to the ZIMRA GMS yard, where officials conducted a physical examination.
Asst Insp Chinyoka said the search resulted in the recovery of a variety of beverages, groceries and other goods.
Among the recovered goods were 200 cases of 12x350ml Coca cola drinks, 10 boxes Jameson whisky, 74 boxes Corona cider, 112 boxes Brutal Fruit cider, two boxes Limpo insect spray and four boxes Basmati rice.
Asst Insp Chinyoka said the truck and the recovered goods are being held at ZIMRA GMS pending seizure.
