Story by Nyasha Makota
ZIMBABWE has intensified its crackdown on drug suppliers, with communities reporting major disruptions to illegal markets and a noticeable increase in police surveillance.
According to exclusive reports from the ground, the Government’s Drug Supply Reduction Strategy is beginning to bear fruit, as authorities tighten enforcement and dismantle distribution networks across affected areas.
ZBC’s investigations in Harare’s Mbare suburb saw residents revealing the effectiveness of police crackdowns in disrupting illicit drug networks
“Since the task force began operations, everything has changed. Prices have doubled, and supply has become much harder to find. The police are really putting pressure everywhere. A bottle of Bronclear now costs US$7 from US$4,” a resident said.
However, the situation reveals complex community dynamics, as explained by another local youth.
“The truth is, everyone knows who the suppliers are, but it is complicated. These same people who sell drugs are the ones who help us during funerals, when there are power cuts, or when families need urgent financial help. That is why sometimes people stay silent,” a community member said.
Despite these complexities, the police offensive has inspired complementary community initiatives, with local task forces now actively supporting government initiatives.
“We are working with authorities to clean our community. We have drug users who are now squatting in squatter camps along the Mukuvisi River. We have established a community task force, whereby we are handing them to the police. When we identify drug users, we ensure they receive proper attention through the appropriate channels at Matapi Police Station,” a member of the community task force said.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police operation has netted hundreds of drug peddlers.
“Our strategy has yielded substantial results with our operations conducted nationwide. From the month of September to date, we have arrested 138 drug and substance users and peddlers. Among these, 108 are youths aged 35 years and below. In the last 24 hours, as the Supply reduction team, we busted a syndicate trading, smoking and supplying dagga.
“They were supplying high-end drugs to Zimbabweans in Harare. We also arrested Robert Mugabe junior and his colleagues, who include some waitresses. All in all, six suspects were arrested. This goes to show the resolve of the government to fight this scourge. We are fully aware of various allegations that they are sacred cows. The police are not sparing anyone. We have even taken action against musicians who have been fingered in drug and substance abuse. What we want is information. People should not be intimidated. We’re making drugs harder to obtain and more expensive to purchase, directly impacting the viability of these illegal operations,” ZRP National Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi said.
With community support and the government’s unrelenting commitment, the war against drug and substance abuse can be won.
