A senior assistant officer of Zimbabwe’s Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) was arrested in Harare over the weekend after being found allegedly in possession of cocaine, raising questions about potential drug involvement within the country’s intelligence community.
The suspect, Francis Gerald Mugoni, 34, appeared before Harare Magistrates Court on Saturday, facing charges of illegal possession of 24.95 grams of cocaine, a quantity valued at approximately US$1,320 on the streets. Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai remanded Mugoni in custody pending further investigations.
Prosecutors revealed that the arrest followed a tip-off received by the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit on 29 October. According to the police, information indicated that Mugoni was allegedly dealing cocaine in and around the Kensington Shopping Centre in Harare. Acting on this intelligence, detectives conducted surveillance the following evening, monitoring areas Mugoni was known to frequent.
On 30 October, at around 10 PM, Mugoni was reportedly observed exiting a black Nissan X-Trail near the intersection of Connaught and Argyle Roads in Avondale. When approached by officers and asked to submit to a search, Mugoni allegedly fled west along Argyle Road, prompting a foot chase by detectives. He was eventually apprehended on Kent Avenue, Avondale.
During a search, police reportedly found a transparent plastic sachet containing a white powder, suspected to be cocaine. Mugoni was then taken to ZRP Harare Central, where a field test confirmed that the substance was indeed cocaine.
The arrest of a senior intelligence officer has sparked serious concerns about drug-related activity within the CIO, an agency tasked with national security and intelligence gathering. While investigations are ongoing, the case has already drawn public attention, highlighting the need for stringent internal controls and accountability within government institutions.
High-Ranking CIO Agent Arrested in Cocaine Bust
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s broader campaign against drug abuse and trafficking. Law enforcement officials said Mugoni’s case is being treated with utmost seriousness, emphasizing that no individual is above the law, regardless of their position or affiliation.
Court proceedings are expected to continue as police complete further investigations, including tracing Mugoni’s alleged sources and distribution networks. Prosecutors have indicated that additional charges could follow if evidence linking him to larger drug operations is uncovered.
This incident comes amid ongoing efforts by Zimbabwean authorities to combat drug trafficking and curb substance abuse, particularly in urban centres like Harare. The involvement of a high-ranking intelligence officer has prompted calls from civil society groups for enhanced transparency and oversight within the country’s security services.
Observers note that the arrest could have far-reaching implications for public trust in the intelligence community, especially given the sensitive nature of the CIO’s work. The agency has historically been perceived as a key player in national security and internal stability, and allegations of drug involvement could undermine its credibility.
Mugoni’s legal representatives have not publicly commented on the allegations, and he remains in custody as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, police are expected to submit a full report to the Attorney General and request further court directives regarding the handling of the case.
The Harare Magistrates Court has scheduled further hearings to examine the charges and allow prosecutors to present additional evidence. Authorities have assured the public that the investigation will proceed without interference, underscoring the principle of accountability in matters involving public officials.
As the case unfolds, it highlights broader concerns about drug use and distribution within institutions entrusted with national security. Experts suggest that strict internal monitoring, integrity audits, and regular vetting of personnel are essential to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The arrest of Mugoni serves as a stark reminder that no one is immune from the law, and it reinforces Zimbabwe’s commitment to combating narcotics at every level of society. Citizens and civil society groups alike are watching the case closely, eager to see justice served and measures put in place to safeguard public institutions from illicit activity.
Source- ZimEye
