Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike
Senior Reporter
POLICE have recovered over ZiG3 billion from illicit drug and substance dealings following a series of operations conducted countrywide between February 2025 and February this year.
During the same period, 15 865 suspects were arrested as law enforcement agencies intensified the fight against drug-related crime.
Responding to questions during a National Assembly session, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe said the milestone was achieved through coordinated strategies and increased enforcement efforts.
“Mr Speaker Sir, during the period coming from February 2025 to February 2026, we conducted 60 enforcement operations, destroyed 326 bases, and made a total of 15 865 targets, which comprise of 3 738 suppliers.
“In addition to that, we managed to recover cannabis, tobacco, cocaine, coffee syrups, and illicit drugs worth ZiG3 475 374 243,” he said.
He attributed the success to the establishment of a dedicated framework and an inter ministerial task force designed to curb drug abuse and trafficking.
The approach has strengthened enforcement and improved coordination among agencies involved in the crackdown.
“This reason is that the country now has a dedicated framework and inter-ministerial task force to handle these issues, allowing for their fair amount of commitment to strengthen and enforce legal frameworks that seek to curb the abuse and distribution of direct resources.
“My mission to the Zimbabwe Public Police is to employ intelligent measures that encompass undercutting of these claims and awareness campaigns, as a means to disrupt the draft supply chain in a costly country,” he said.
Minister Kazembe said police adopted multiple strategies, including roadblocks, drone surveillance, undercover operations and enhanced border patrols.
These measures have been complemented by regional and international cooperation aimed at dismantling drug supply networks.
“It is precisely for this reason that my ministry has enhanced awareness campaigns and roadblocks along major roads,” he said.
Awareness campaigns are being rolled out to educate communities on the dangers of drug abuse, while disrupting supply chains before substances reach end users.
Minister Kazemba added that the Government remains committed to protecting communities and ensuring offenders face the full force of the law.
“Going forward, Mr Speaker Sir, my ministry will continue in intensification of intelligence campaigns and collaboration amongst law enforcement agents and stakeholders in the fight against this scourge.
“These evidence-led interventions will continue to be applied to ensure that offenders face the full consequences of their role while communities remain protected and informed,” he said.
Minister Kazembe also appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing information on drug syndicates and warned against participation in drug related activities, citing their devastating impact on society.
“Mr Speaker Sir, I also take this opportunity to appeal to all Zimbabweans to work with the police by supplying information about drug supply chains which remain open.
“I also appeal to them to desist from engaging in drug and substance supply and use, as we have already witnessed the negative effects of such acts affecting the streets,” he said.
