An inter-ministerial task force on smuggling recently uncovered 150 bags of 50kg fertilizer and seeds from the Presidential Inputs Scheme at a residence in Queensdale Suburb, Bulawayo. The inputs, intended to assist farmers, were reportedly being sold illegally.
150 Stolen Bags of Fertilizer Found
According to CITE, the National Anti-Smuggling Task Force acted on a tip-off, leading to the discovery. A source disclosed:
“On December 27, 2024, around 9 a.m., while on duty, we arrived at No. 15 Connolly Road, Queensdale, following information about suspected smuggled goods. Instead of contraband, we found large quantities of fertilizer consistent with those from the Presidential Inputs Scheme.”
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The property owner, Wallace Mapiye (40), denied ownership of the fertilizer and implicated Edgar Bhiri (28) from Njube, who allegedly delivered the goods. Mapiye led the task force to Bhiri, who was intercepted on his way to a church in Emganwini.
Bhiri confessed to delivering the fertilizer to Mapiye’s residence, claiming it had been supplied by Tawanda Sibanda (56) from Mpopoma. Bhiri stated he was instructed to sell the fertilizer and share the proceeds.
The task force apprehended Sibanda at his home, where he disclosed that the fertilizer was sourced from a woman identified as Yvonne, an extension officer. He provided her contact details to the authorities. Sibanda admitted to receiving 150 bags of 50kg compound D fertilizer for sale, delegating Bhiri to handle transactions.
Mapiye, Bhiri, and Sibanda were taken to ZRP Queensdale, where an official report was filed. The case has since been referred to the police anti-corruption unit for further investigation.
Source: ZiMetro
