The government has begun a comprehensive door-to-door operation aimed at confiscating smuggled goods, which have increasingly flooded the country, particularly during the festive season.
Individuals found in possession of these illegal items face immediate arrest and imprisonment, with no option for bail.
This crackdown addresses the country’s annual losses of approximately US$1 billion due to rampant smuggling along its borders. The operation coincides with the festive season, a peak period for such activities, as many Zimbabweans return home for Christmas and New Year celebrations, often bringing goods from South Africa and other neighboring countries.
Deployment of Task Force
Speaking to the media, Engineer Tafadzwa Muguti, the Permanent Secretary for Presidential Affairs in the Office of the President, announced the deployment of a specialized task force to major border posts and key roads to block the inflow of smuggled goods.
“This December, we are enforcing zero tolerance for smuggling by stationing inter-governmental agencies at all major border posts,” Muguti said. “The task force will also conduct inspections at wholesale and retail shops to ensure compliance.”
The operation will target a range of businesses, including wholesalers, supermarkets, and technology shops. Smuggled items being confiscated include food products, clothing, alcohol, medications, fertilisers, cement, vehicles, electronics, and solar equipment.
Protecting Local Industries
Engineer Muguti emphasized that the government’s priority is to safeguard local industries from competition posed by cheap, often counterfeit goods that could also endanger consumer health.
He issued a strong warning to Zimbabweans returning from the diaspora for the holidays. “We often see black market activities and price hikes during this time. Many returning residents attempt to smuggle groceries, illicit alcohol, and other items without declaring them. Let me be clear: there will be no fines for violators at roadblocks. Instead, those caught will face immediate arrest and risk spending Christmas in jail.”
Multi-Agency Taskforce
The government recently established a task force led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce to spearhead efforts against smuggling. This initiative includes multiple agencies, such as the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), and the Consumer Protection Commission.
To combat corruption, surveillance systems have been set up at roadblocks and within the transport sector. Engineer Muguti also issued a warning to government officials, stressing that any involvement in corrupt practices would be met with strict penalties.
Crackdown Results and Measures
Since January, over 15,000 individuals have been arrested for smuggling-related offenses. The government has also extended the crackdown to businesses that exploit parallel market exchange rates or sell counterfeit, underweight, or unlabeled products.
To ensure enforcement, 24-hour roadblocks have been established on major highways leading into cities. Multi-agency teams stationed at these checkpoints are inspecting vehicles suspected of transporting smuggled goods.
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