Two Zimbabwean soccer players have been arrested in a major drug trafficking operation after being caught with a large shipment of dagga valued at US$75 000. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) intercepted Tumai Matsika, also known as Abas Amidu (29), and Reuben Kudzai Mhlanga (41), along the Kwekwe–Kadoma Highway on October 3, finding 750 kilograms of the illicit substance in a silver Honda Shuttle, registration number AGP 6776.
The arrests underscore ongoing police efforts to clamp down on drug trafficking networks operating along key transport corridors in the country. Authorities indicated that the suspects are assisting with investigations as the case moves toward prosecution.
In a separate but related incident, the ZRP apprehended Prosper Mphofu (48) at the Trabablas Interchange after he allegedly received a parcel containing 60 kilograms of dagga worth US$6 000 from a vehicle.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, spokesperson for the ZRP, warned that the police will continue targeting traffickers and dismantling illicit networks. “These arrests demonstrate the ZRP’s commitment to tackling drug-related crimes. We encourage the public to report any suspicious activity so that we can continue protecting communities from illegal substances,” he said.
The involvement of sports figures in the drug trade has raised concern among fans and the wider public, prompting calls for stricter monitoring and awareness programs to deter athletes from engaging in criminal activities.
Police confirmed that more operations are underway, targeting individuals and groups suspected of transporting and distributing illegal drugs across the country, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s zero-tolerance stance on narcotics.
