14 Busted in Massive Drug Haul as Police Crack Down on Syndicate
By Loyd Matare
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have arrested 14 suspects linked to the unlawful possession and distribution of unregistered medicines in a major crackdown on illegal pharmaceuticals.
The arrests, carried out on March 24, 2025, followed a coordinated police operation targeting a suspected drug trafficking network operating between Bulawayo and Chinhoyi.
Acting on a tip-off, law enforcement officers intercepted a rigid truck, registration number AFG 3713, at Murombedzi, Zvimba.
The vehicle, loaded with unregistered medicines, was en route to Chinhoyi when police swooped in, apprehending the driver, Justice Nyika (42), along with his two assistants, Prosper Maphosa (37) and Clarence Ncube (27).
Upon interrogation, the trio implicated 11 other individuals, leading to a second wave of arrests in Braeside, Harare.
Further investigations revealed that the additional suspects—Brenda Sango (35), Rumbidzai Chinyamakobvu (38), Melany Gutsire (39), Tafadzwa Makwarimbna (36), Charles Kakomwe (34), Rufaro Munyanyi (42), Ephiphania Norest Moyo (43), Beauty Madamombe (52), Mascline Dziva (47), Portia Chimombe (38), and Tambudzai Shoko (37)—were the intended recipients of the contraband.
Police recovered a staggering haul of illicit medicines, including 815 boxes of Broncleer, 77 boxes of Benyin Cough Syrup, 162 boxes of Adeo Salteryn Cough Syrup, and 44 and a half boxes of Astrapane Cough Syrup.
The consignment, which is believed to be worth over $100,000 on the black market, was destined for illegal distribution.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests, emphasizing the force’s commitment to curbing the proliferation of dangerous drugs in communities.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will not tolerate the illegal distribution of unregistered medicines, which pose a serious threat to public health.
“We urge citizens to report any suspicious activities and assist in ridding our communities of these dangerous substances,” he said.
Authorities have warned that further arrests could follow as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, the ZRP has commended members of the public for their vigilance, stating that citizen cooperation remains crucial in the ongoing war against drug syndicates.
