Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
TWO soccer players have been caught red-handed running a shocking drug trafficking side hustle — hauling 750 kilogrammes of dagga with a street value of US$75 000 along the Kwekwe–Kadoma Highway.
Zimbabwe national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the dramatic arrest of Tumai Matsika, also known as Abas Amidu (29) who is a former national team striker, and Reuben Kudzai Mhlanga (41), who were nabbed while driving a silver Honda Shuttle (AGP 6776) packed with the contraband.
In a statement, Comm Nyathi said: “The ZRP confirms the arrest of soccer players, Tumai Matsika, also known as Abas Amidu, and Reuben Kudzai Mhlanga for drug trafficking. The two were found in possession of 750kg of dagga valued at US$75 000 in a silver Honda Shuttle vehicle along Kwekwe–Kadoma Highway on 03/10/25.”
The arrest has sent shockwaves through local football circles, with fans expressing disbelief that the pair swapped the beautiful game for the dark business of dagga deals.
Meanwhile, in a separate sting, police swooped in on Prosper Mphofu (48) at Trabablas Interchange, moments after he received a parcel containing 60kg of dagga with a street value of US$6 000 from another vehicle.
Comm Nyathi confirmed the follow-up arrest, saying: “The ZRP has arrested Prosper Mphofu after receiving a parcel containing 60kg of dagga worth US$6 000 from a certain vehicle.”
He warned that police will not tolerate the growing trend of sportsmen turning to crime as a “side hustle.”
“These arrests serve as a strong warning to all individuals involved in drug trafficking. The law will catch up with you,” said Comm Nyathi.
As investigations continue, questions remain over whether the two footballers were acting alone or part of a larger drug-running syndicate using sport as cover for illegal operations.
A dream career on the pitch has now turned into a nightmare off it — with handcuffs instead of medals.
