Harare, (New Ziana) -Five men have been sentenced to perform 105 hours of community service each for their role in a brazen attempt to sneak over ZiG80 484.78 worth of illicit goods through the Chirundu Border Post.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said Tapera Kafombori, (34), of Mzari, Chinhoyi, Anyway Mufakose, (24), Salimu Libhermen, (24), of New Stands, Chirundu, Chagwangwa Wonder, (21), and Phiri Archford, (31) of Chirundu were convicted of transporting smuggled goods using two vehicles.
The NPAZ said law enforcement officers received intelligence on January 25 this year that the offenders were smuggling goods, including new and second-hand clothing, valued at ZiG80 484.78. The vehicles, a Toyota Hiace and a Nissan Caravan, were intercepted near the Chirundu dumpsite and taken to Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, where officials confirmed that no duty had been paid.
Smuggling has long been a thorn in the flesh of the Zimbabwean economy, crippling local industries, stifling revenue collection, and undermining Government efforts to build a thriving, self-reliant nation.
But the tide is turning, as ZIMRA and other border security agencies ramp up their relentless campaign to dismantle the smuggling infrastructure.
Recently, ZIMRA destroyed 21 inflatable boats used by smugglers to ferry contraband across the Limpopo River between Zimbabwe and South Africa. The authority has also deployed drones to patrol key smuggling hotspots, providing real-time aerial intelligence that has led to the swift interception and destruction of smuggling infrastructure.
The establishment of a National Anti-smuggling Task Force, coupled with measures such as police roadblocks and inspections of retail outlets, has demonstrated government commitment to protecting the country’s economic interests.
A multi-agency operation led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce is underway to safeguard domestic industries and ensure fair competition.
New Ziana
