Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
Police have intercepted two suspected drug traffickers along the busy Harare–Masvingo–Beitbridge Highway and seized more than half a tonne of mbanje in a major anti-narcotics operation.
The 529,6 kilogrammes of the illicit substance were allegedly being transported under a consignment of corn snacks and onions in an apparent attempt to evade detection at security checkpoints.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrests, identifying the suspects as Blessing Matsikarima (28) and Isaac Marume (30).
“The ZRP confirms the arrest of Blessing Matsikarima aged 28 and Isaac Marume aged 30 in connection with a case of unlawful possession of dagga. Blessing Matsikarima was driving a Nissan Caravan, while Isaac Marume was escorting him in a Toyota Hilux GD6,” he said.
Comm Nyathi said the two vehicles were intercepted at a traffic checkpoint at the 80-kilometre peg along the Beitbridge–Masvingo Road, near Elephant and Lion Motel, on February 27, 2026.
“Upon searching the vehicles, police recovered 529.6 kilogrammes of dagga concealed beneath a consignment of jiggies (corn snacks) and onions,” he said.
The Harare–Masvingo–Beitbridge Highway is a major transit route linking Zimbabwe to South Africa, and authorities have in recent years intensified surveillance and roadblocks to curb the smuggling of drugs and other contraband.
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