Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter
Two men have been arrested for smuggling dangerous drugs into Zimbabwe from South Africa following a police operation that intercepted a vehicle at Esigodini Tollgate, resulting in a major drug seizure.
The suspects — Dennis Ndlovu ,26, of Efusini, Tsholotsho in Matabeleland North, and Edward Phiri ,32, of Makokoba, Bulawayo — were found in possession of 100 bottles of Broncleer cough syrup, a codeine-based drug often abused as a narcotic. Each bottle contained 100 millilitres, with the consignment's estimated street value pegged at US$1 000.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the arrests, crediting detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department Drugs section in Bulawayo with acting swiftly on a tip-off received on April 28, 2025.
“Detectives received information about a white Toyota Quantum with a Gauteng registration plate towing a black trailer that was heading to Bulawayo from South Africa,” said Msebele. “The vehicle was intercepted at Esigodini Tollgate, and a search led to the discovery of a MAQ Surf box and a black cooler bag containing 100 x 100ml bottles of Broncleer cough syrup.”
One of the occupants claimed the parcel was addressed to a person known as "King Denara" in Tsholotsho. Detectives then set up a controlled delivery, which led to the arrest of Dennis Ndlovu, who admitted to being "King Denara." He later implicated Edward Phiri as the owner of the illegal consignment.
Further investigations revealed that the unregistered Broncleer was smuggled into Zimbabwe by Ndlovu’s sister, Sithabile Sibanda, from South Africa.
Assistant Inspector Msebele commended the public for its assistance in combating drug trafficking. “We extend our gratitude to the public for their unwavering support in providing tip-offs that help us dismantle drug networks,” she said. “We urge Bulawayo residents to continue playing a role in safeguarding our communities—every piece of information makes a difference.”
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon as investigations continue.
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