CommuTalk Reporter
GWERU – Police have intercepted 164 bales of second-hand clothing believed to have been smuggled into the country from Mozambique.
The bales were discovered at a house in Daylesford in the suburb where two suspects have since been arrested in connection with the contraband.
Officer Commanding Gweru Urban District Chief Superintendent Dr Leon Marongedza, said the interception followed a surveillance operation launched after receiving a tip-off about suspected smuggling activities in the city.
“Our investigations led us to a house in Gweru where the bales were found. Some suspects fled the scene as police closed in, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend all those involved,” he said.
Dr Marongedza emphasized that the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards the importation of undeclared goods and that law enforcement will ensure all offenders are brought to justice.
“We will ensure that these perpetrators reconsider illegal trade and opt for lawful means of earning a living, as smuggling undermines the local industry,” he added.
ZRP also highlighted that they are currently working with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) to determine the value of the seized goods.
Meanwhile, 24-hour roadblocks have been set up around Gweru to monitor and prevent the movement of smuggled goods into the city.
Police and other security establishments have been making raids on unsuspecting cross-border buses.
