Police Intercept Smuggled Goods Worth Thousands in Gokwe
n By Delicious Mathuthu n nn n Gokwe - Police in Gokwe have intercepted a bus carrying smuggled goods worth thousands of United States (US) dollars in an operation aimed at curbing illicit trade in the Midlands Province. n nn n The bus, whi
anostrofy By Delicious Mathuthu
Gokwe - Police in Gokwe have intercepted a bus carrying smuggled goods worth thousands of United States (US) dollars in an operation aimed at curbing illicit trade in the Midlands Province.
The bus, which had 16 passengers on board, was intercepted on July 2, 2025, at around 7:00pm in Gokwe Central Business District by the Officer Commanding Police in Gokwe District, Chief Superintendent Tsitsi Chikono.
Midlands Police say after the interception, officers from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) were called in.
“The bus was suspected to be carrying smuggled goods from South Africa. ZIMRA officials were invited to the scene and conducted a thorough search,” Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, the Midlands Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer said.
The inspection revealed that six of the 16 passengers had various undeclared items, prompting immediate action.
The six passengers were found to be carrying goods without proper documentation and were required to pay customs duty.
Among them, 33-year-old Precious Zulu of Mapfungautsi who was found in possession of large quantities of consumer goods, including 145 boxes of MAQ washing powder, 20 cases of rice, 300 packs of Hello snacks, and other assorted items. She paid a total duty of US$948.
Other individuals fined include Gilbert Muvungani (29), who paid US$158 for 20 blankets and 30 comforters.
Amos Chikuni (37) paid US$158 for various goods, Leonard Gande (40) paid ZWG 15 564,
Faines Ruzane (37), paid US$102 for four batteries and other items.
Loveness Phiri (41), paid US$350 for 90 boxes of potato crisps, flour, snacks and biscuits.
The remaining 10 passengers had their goods verified and cleared.
Inspector Mahoko reminded the public to always abide by the country's laws in doing business.
“Members of the public are reminded always to abide by the rules and regulations of the country and run their businesses in line with the law,” he said.
Police and ZIMRA say similar operations will continue in efforts to combat smuggling and protect the local economy.
The incident comes amid a growing trend in cross-border smuggling, where traders transport undeclared goods, primarily basic commodities, toiletries, and groceries from South Africa for resale in Zimbabwe’s informal markets.
Economic analysts say the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, high import duties and a weakened Zimbabwean dollar have contributed to the surge in illegal imports, particularly through undesignated entry points along the Beitbridge border.
Smuggling has become a lifeline for many informal traders trying to stock their tuckshops and stalls affordably, but it poses a threat to the formal economy and local manufacturing, moreso, robbing the state of much-needed revenue, they say.
Police and customs officials say buses and private vehicles are increasingly being used to move goods in small consignments to avoid detection.
Items commonly smuggled include cooking oil, soaps, maize meal, blankets, snacks, vehicle parts, drugs, among other goods.
