
Gula-Ndebele & 5 others arrested for unlawful possession of cocaine. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of Eleph Khumbula Gula-Ndebele, along with five other individuals, for their involvement in the unlawful possession of cocaine. The suspects, including Gula-Ndebele, were arrested following an investigation into a drug trafficking ring that has been operating in Harare.
According to a statement released by the ZRP, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi revealed that Gula-Ndebele was implicated by Tsitsi Vundla, a victim of drug abuse. Vundla had been arrested earlier in March 2024 and provided authorities with critical information that led to the arrest of Gula-Ndebele and his accomplices. The police also confirmed that the other suspects involved in the drug trafficking operation are Talent Mapanga, Takunda Godoka, Tanaka Chimuka, Tapiwa Mutebuka, and Sam Chasaya.
The arrest of Gula-Ndebele on May 24, 2024, was a significant breakthrough for the CID Drugs and Narcotics unit, who had been investigating the case for some time. Acting on a tip-off, detectives apprehended the 39-year-old Gula-Ndebele at a residence along Knightsbridge Road in Highlands, Harare. During the search of his vehicle, a Volkswagen Polo with the registration number ABF 8319, the police recovered a sachet containing cocaine, which had been hidden in the front door panel of the car.
Gula-Ndebele & 5 others arrested for unlawful possession of cocaine
The arrest has raised further concerns about the growing problem of drug abuse in Zimbabwe, which has been steadily increasing over the past few years. The police, however, emphasized that they will not back down in their fight against illegal drug possession and trafficking in the country. Assistant Commissioner Nyathi reiterated the ZRP’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse and related criminal activities. He also encouraged members of the public to continue providing information on individuals involved in drug trafficking.
Nyathi made an appeal to the public, urging them to report any suspicious activity related to drug abuse or trafficking to the police. He highlighted that individuals can reach the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631 or use the dedicated WhatsApp line at 0712 800 197. Additionally, reports can be made in person at any nearest police station. The police are hoping that continued cooperation from the public will help dismantle drug trafficking networks that have been operating within Zimbabwe’s borders.
The arrest of Gula-Ndebele and his associates has drawn attention to the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to curb the illicit drug trade in Zimbabwe. It is believed that drug trafficking networks like the one Gula-Ndebele was allegedly involved in have been importing and distributing various illegal substances across the country, contributing to a rise in addiction and related crimes. Cocaine, in particular, has been identified as one of the most dangerous and widely abused substances, leading to widespread concern over the safety of communities in urban areas.
In response to this issue, the police have been working closely with other agencies, both locally and internationally, to combat the drug trade. The ZRP’s proactive stance in addressing drug abuse and trafficking underscores their commitment to public safety and the well-being of Zimbabwean citizens.
As the investigation continues, police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any individuals or activities they suspect may be linked to drug trafficking. Authorities hope that these arrests will serve as a warning to others involved in the illegal drug trade and will deter further criminal activities related to drug abuse.
With the public’s ongoing cooperation, the police remain hopeful that they can make even greater strides in tackling the growing problem of drug abuse in Zimbabwe. The ZRP has vowed to continue their efforts to rid the nation of harmful substances and to create a safer environment for all Zimbabweans.