Sithembinkosi L Jiyane
Crimes & Court Reporter
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
Eight individuals appeared before the Tredgold Magistrate Court in Bulawayo this week facing charges of smoking dangerous drugs, including dagga and crystal meth, without a valid permit.
The accused, aged between 25 and 44 years, are: Christopher Muje (34), Joshua Alfred Lawrence (33), Prosper Ndlovu (28), Claudi Freza (26), Pamela Ngwenya (25), Thabo Jubane (26), Peter Rensburg (44), and Sipho Munyaradzi Sibanda (35).
According to the State, detectives from ZRP Bulawayo Central responded to information that the group was smoking drugs at the corner of 12th Avenue and R. G. Mugabe Way at around 0310 hours. on 13 February 2026. Upon arrival, police recovered two stubs of dagga and smoking apparatus for crystal meth.
The accused were unable to produce the required permits for these substances and were consequently arrested.
All recovered items were handed over to the CID Drugs Unit Bulawayo for further investigation. The State argued that the accused had no legal right to use dangerous drugs as defined under Section 157(1)(b) of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act (Chapter 9:23).
The arrests have sent ripples through the local community, with residents expressing concern over the growing prevalence of drug use in certain areas.
Community leaders have called for greater awareness campaigns and stronger collaboration between law enforcement and neighborhoods to curb drug abuse.
This incident highlights the serious consequences of using controlled substances without authorization and underscores the importance of following the law. The case also serves as a reminder to young people and the public at large to avoid involvement with dangerous drugs.
The arrest of these eight individuals serves as a clear warning that the law is strictly enforced when it comes to illegal drug use. Authorities urge the public to stay vigilant, make responsible choices, and work together to build safer communities.
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