Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) intercepted a South African truck driver at the Beitbridge Border Post attempting to smuggle 163 kilograms of marijuana (dagga) into Zimbabwe.
The contraband allegedly hidden in a South African-registered Hino truck is valued at US$32 600 (R607 944.36).
According to The Chronicle, ZIMRA customs officials, aided by K9 units, discovered the drugs hidden beneath blankets and plastic wrapping during a routine inspection.
ZIMRA spokesperson Francis Chimanda, in a statement to NewsDay on 3 March 2025, confirmed the details of the bust.
“The truck, driven by an unidentified South African national, entered from South Africa and was en route to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), transiting through Zimbabwe and Zambia,” Chimanda stated.
He further emphasized that the matter remains under active investigation by law enforcement agencies, with authorities committed to dismantling cross-border smuggling operations.
Meanwhile, ZIMRA Commissioner-General Regina Chinamasa praised the agency’s dedication to combating smuggling.
“The trafficking of illegal drugs poses a significant threat to our society. ZIMRA remains committed to safeguarding our borders and preventing the flow of illicit substances,” she added.
Is Beitbridge border a smuggling hotspot?
The Beitbridge Border Post has long been a focal point for smuggling, not just for drugs, but for a variety of illicit goods.
It serves as a critical transit point between South Africa, Zimbabwe, and further into the rest of Africa.
This recent drug bust is one of several similar interceptions in recent years.
In March 2024, authorities arrested a woman from Mbare, Harare, after she was caught with 6.3 kilograms of marijuana, believed to have been smuggled from South Africa.
A month later, in April 2024, ZIMRA intercepted a South African-registered vehicle at Beitbridge carrying 48 kilograms of cannabis and large quantities of illegal cough syrup.
This incident highlighted the growing trend of drug trafficking through the border.
In recent months, ZIMRA has intensified efforts to curb smuggling at Beitbridge.
According to Pindula, in February 2025, the authority publicly destroyed 21 boats and 20 paddles used for smuggling goods across the Limpopo River.
While this action temporarily disrupted illicit operations, deeply entrenched smuggling networks remain a challenge.
Is Beitbridge Border Post Doing Enough to Stop Smuggling?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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