PLUMTREE, OCT10, (SOUTHERN EYE LIVE): Police in Matabeleland South has arrested two suspects in separate motor vehicle smuggling cases involving vehicles valued at approximately US$20,000.
In a statement, police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the arrests were made on October 8, 2026, in Plumtree and Chikombedzi as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.
In Plumtree, Support Unit officers deployed under Operation No to Cross Border Crimes arrested Tendai Tarwireyi (47) in connection with the alleged smuggling of a blue Honda Fit GD1 valued at approximately US$5,000.
“The vehicle was reportedly brought into Zimbabwe from a neighbouring country through an illegal crossing point at Driden Farm,” Nyathi said.
In a separate incident, Support Unit officers deployed at Puzani Base in Chikombedzi arrested Michael Chivambo Mahlekete (28), who was wanted in connection with the smuggling of a motor vehicle through an illegal entry and exit point along the Limpopo River in Beitbridge.
Police said Mahlekete had evaded arrest on October 5, 2026, when officers intercepted a red, unregistered Mitsubishi Colt pick-up truck towing a white Toyota Corolla Cross, registration number MD59DG GP, valued at approximately US$15,000.
“The suspect had evaded arrest when police intercepted the vehicles,” Nyathi said.
The two arrests form part of a police operation targeting motor vehicle smuggling and other cross-border crimes.
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The ZRP continues to urge the public to support efforts to curb illegal cross-border activities.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the police,” Nyathi said.
