2,889 Arrested, ZiG80 Million Drugs Seized in Nationwide Crackdown as Zimbabwe Escalates War on Narcotics

By Staff Reporter

Zimbabwe has launched one of its largest anti-drug operations in recent years, with authorities confirming that 2,889 suspects have been arrested and drugs worth nearly ZiG80 million confiscated in a sweeping nationwide crackdown on narcotics and substance abuse.

The figures were disclosed during the **15th post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on 19 May 2026**, where government officials provided an update on intensified enforcement actions targeting drug networks across the country.

According to the briefing, presented by Defence Minister **Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri**, who chairs the Zimbabwe National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, the ongoing campaign is being implemented under the **2024–2030 Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan**.

Major arrests and dismantled drug networks

Authorities confirmed that **2,889 accused persons have been brought before the courts**, with **381 convictions already secured** as prosecutions continue to rise.

Security forces reportedly targeted drug suppliers, users, and distribution hubs, particularly in **Manicaland and Mashonaland West provinces**, where multiple illegal bases were dismantled.

Officials said operations led to:

* **453 drug suppliers arrested**
* **2,436 end-users apprehended**
* **31 drug bases dismantled**

### Drugs worth nearly ZiG80 million seized

Government figures show that drugs and illicit substances valued at approximately **ZiG79.9 million** were confiscated during the crackdown.

The seized substances include **crystal meth, cocaine, ecstasy tablets, cannabis (dagga), khat, and unregistered pharmaceutical products**, including cough syrups.

Law enforcement agencies say efforts are ongoing to disrupt supply chains and dismantle wider trafficking networks operating across Zimbabwe.

### Broader enforcement and social interventions

As part of the nationwide operation, authorities also intensified inspections of alcohol outlets, with **615 licensed premises reviewed**. At least **36 unlicensed establishments were fined and shut down**.

Government also reported expanded awareness campaigns reaching **over 285,000 people**, alongside the rollout of drug-testing kits and the reintegration of vulnerable children into families.

Officials confirmed that **32 street-connected children** were removed during operations, while **171 children were reunited with families**.

### Youth rehabilitation and empowerment drive

Authorities say **37,937 young people and women** have benefited from rehabilitation, skills training, and entrepreneurship programmes linked to the anti-drug strategy.

A **US$1 million youth empowerment fund** has also been launched to support recovery and prevention initiatives.

Government says the national strategy—built on prevention, rehabilitation, enforcement, and legal reform—will continue through **2030** as Zimbabwe escalates its fight against drug and substance abuse.