The government has revealed that over 400 drug users and peddlers were arrested recently with 36 suppliers referred to court.
This was contained in the post-cabinet briefing held on 18 October 2023.
Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere said the government continues to heighten the fight against the illegal inflow of illicit drugs, substances, as well as alcohol throughout the country.
“A total of 468 (402 male and 66 female) offenders were arrested,” he said. “Out of the 468 offenders, 36 were suppliers who were referred to court, whilst 432 were drug users and consumers who paid deposit fines.”
Dr Muswere said 198 (184 male and 14 female) patients received drug rehabilitation services inclusive of treatment, medical detoxification, and rehabilitation services to all referred and walk-in clients.
He said raids were conducted during the period under review and drugs were confiscated.
“A total of four (4) bases were destroyed from three provinces, that is, two (2) in Harare Metropolitan (Mbare and Epworth), one (1) in Midlands (Gweru CBD) and one (1) in Mashonaland West (Gwayagwaya Shopping Centre).”
Meanwhile, he said the Liquor Licensing Board conducted alcohol outlet compliance inspections across the country in the cities, municipalities, towns, and rural areas.
“A total of 244 bottle stores, 197 bars, 90 night clubs and 145 other outlets were monitored for compliance purposes. These inspections have enhanced the compliance of alcohol outlets.”
Dr Muswere said Primary, Higher and Tertiary Education Institutions carried out drug and substance abuse awareness campaigns for students.
“Weekly Awareness campaigns continue to be a priority, and the collective campaigns in the primary and secondary education levels have reached 16 825 learners (4 155 male and 12 670 female).”
“Community outreaches are being carried out through Information, Education, and Communication materials.”
He added that the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) seized an unregistered consignment of drugs.
“The case was referred to the Zimbabwe Republic Police CID Department and investigations are underway.”
Dr Muswere added that religious groups continue to scale up the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“The Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs in Zimbabwe carried out awareness campaigns reaching 1 908 Muslim communities from 1 328 Mosques across the ten provinces. Furthermore, the United Churches Council of Zimbabwe conducted a meeting which benefited 150 residents at Hope Fountain in Bulawayo, while an estimated 1 200 congregants from Johanne Masowe ye Chipiri underwent a similar programme in Zaka District.”
