Vongai Masuka

A Mutare Magistrates’ Court has convicted two men to 12 months in prison if they default on payment of USD 1,000 fine each for smuggling 458 sacks of groundnuts into Zimbabwe.

Their offense is said to have violated the country’s Customs and Excise Act.

The conviction followed the interception of the consignment, which authorities say represents a major blow to illicit trade.

According to the prosecuting authority, on August 23, 2025, police on patrol along the Beira Road intercepted a truck carrying the groundnuts.

“On the 23rd of August, police officers on patrol along Beira Road intercepted a truck driven by Luis.

“Upon inspection, the truck was found loaded with groundnuts belonging to Oscar Makawi. The driver who is 37, failed to produce declaration forms for the consignment,” reads the statement.

The truck and its contents were seized and handed over to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) which confirmed that the groundnuts, with a potential prejudice to the state of USD 2,500, had been smuggled.

As a result of the conviction, the goods were forfeited to ZIMRA.

Both men were sentenced to pay a fine of USD 1,000 each or serve 12 months in prison if they default on payment.