THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a manhunt for three suspected drug lords believed to be operating syndicated drug bases across Harare’s high-density suburbs, amid concerns that the network is also linked to violent crime, including armed robbery.
In a statement, police identified the suspects as Nomore “Nomara” Chabata (47), Joymore Chihwai (41) and Leon Mambohaatumwi (35).
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is seeking information which may lead to the location and subsequent arrest of highly wanted drug lords, Nomore ‘Nomara’ Chabata (47), Joymore Chihwai (41) and Leon Mambohaatumwi (35),” the statement read.
According to police, the suspects allegedly ran drug syndicates operating in Mufakose, Marimba and Mabvuku.
Police said investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly used
heavily fortified premises to evade arrest.
“Initial police investigations revealed that the drug lords were operating at houses with very high durawalls [precast walls] for concealment, electric fences and CCTV cameras for surveillance and evading arrest and raids by the police,” the statement said.
Police added that the premises were guarded by dangerous dogs to frustrate law enforcement operations.
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The ZRP also indicated that the recovery of explosives during investigations points to possible links between drug trade and armed robbery
cases.
Zimbabwe has recorded a surge in drug and substance abuse cases in recent years, particularly among youths, prompting intensified crackdowns on drug syndicates and suppliers. Authorities have conducted several nationwide raids targeting illegal drug networks, frequently recovering substances such as crystal meth, marijuana and broncleer cough syrup.
The government has repeatedly described drug and substance abuse as a national crisis, citing rising crime, mental health challenges and school dropouts linked to narcotic use.
