Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
MASHONALAND Central Province has escalated its fight against drug and substance abuse, recording nearly 300 arrests in the first quarter of the year as authorities tighten enforcement and expand intervention programmes.
The intensified crackdown has seen 296 suspects arrested between January and March, with Bindura, Mazowe and Shamva emerging as the province’s major drug hotspots.
Mashonaland Central Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Christopher Magomo, said the results reflect sustained and coordinated law enforcement efforts across the province.
“Between January and March 2026, intensified operations resulted in 296 arrests across the province. Bindura has 78 arrests, 30 convictions and recoveries valued at US$3 500. Mazowe had 72 arrests, 28 convictions and recoveries valued at US$1 200. Shamva had 61 arrests, 21 convictions and recoveries valued at US$2 100. Drug recoveries included 9.2 kilogrammes of dagga, 194.22 grams of crystal meth and codeine-based substances valued at over US$12 000,” Honourable Magomo said.
To counter the evils of drug abuse, Government is assisting survivors with rehabilitation and conducting youth empowerment initiatives.
“The demand reduction pillar has continued to record significant progress across all districts through awareness campaigns, youth empowerment initiatives, vocational training and livelihood capacitation programmes. A total of 600 youths across the province benefitted from loans, grants, startup projects and empowerment support through government and partner institutions,” Honourable Magomo noted.
The province has adopted a multi-sectoral approach that combines law enforcement, rehabilitation and economic empowerment in line with the national strategy to combat drug and substance abuse.
Despite the progress, authorities say efforts will be intensified to safeguard communities, strengthen rehabilitation systems and sustain gains made in the fight against drug abuse.
