Two Men Fined US$1,000 Each for Smuggling 458 Sacks of Groundnuts Into Zimbabwe
Two men were each fined US$1,000 by the Mutare Magistrates’ Court after being convicted of smuggling 458 sacks of groundnuts into Zimbabwe.
The offence occurred on August 23, 2025, when police officers on patrol intercepted a truck along Beira Road that was carrying undeclared goods in violation of the Customs and Excise Act.
According to a statement issued by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Willard Obete Luis (37) of Manica, Mozambique, was driving the truck, which was loaded with groundnuts belonging to Oscar Makawi (37) of Dangamvura, Mutare.
“The driver failed to produce any declaration forms for the consignment.
“The truck and goods were escorted to ZRP Mutare Central and later handed over to ZIMRA, which confirmed the consignment was smuggled,” read part of the NPA statement.
The Herald reported that the potential prejudice to the State was estimated at US$2,500.
Both men were ordered to pay the fine or serve 12 months in prison.
The recovered groundnuts were forfeited to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).
Authorities say the conviction sends a strong message to would-be smugglers attempting to bypass customs procedures.
Investigations into similar cross-border offences are ongoing as enforcement tightens along key trade routes.
