War against illicit trade escalates

STAFF WRITER

The Government has declared war against smuggling that has seen the country losing at least US$1bn annually as smugglers capitalise on organised crimes and porous border posts to loot.

The aggressive operation is timed to coincide with the festive season and has seen over 20 busses impounded and several people charged for smuggling.

There has been a comprehensive strategy to reclaim the economy from the clutches of criminal networks and protect local industries from the flood of untaxed, counterfeit goods.

Goods ranging from groceries, alcohol, and clothing to solar panels, electronic gadgets, and vehicles are transported through porous borders and corrupt channels, entering the country without proper declaration or payment of duties.

To combat this menace, the government has deployed a multi-agency task force comprising the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), and the Consumer Protection Commission.

Addressing journalists in the capital Harare yesterday, Tafadzwa Muguti, permanent secretary for Presidential Affairs in the Office of the President and Cabinet, unveiled the government’s bold strategy.

“This December, we are launching a zero-tolerance campaign against smuggling. Inter-governmental teams are stationed at all major border posts, and inspections will now extend to wholesale and retail shops in towns and cities,” Muguti declared.

The operation targets not only smugglers but also businesses dealing in illicit goods.

Door-to-door inspections in supermarkets, wholesalers, and tech shops will ensure that smuggled products do not find their way into the hands of unsuspecting consumers.

Those caught with smuggled goods face immediate arrest and imprisonment, with no option for fines or bail.

Muguti delivered a stark warning to diasporas returning for the holidays saying: “Failing to declare your goods or attempting to smuggle alcohol, groceries, or other items will land you in jail. You risk spending Christmas behind bars.”

Zimbabwe’s economy has been severely impacted by smuggling, which deprives the government of much-needed revenue while destabilizing local industries.

Moreover, smuggling fuels black market currency exchange, contributing to inflationary pressures and weakening the Zimbabwean dollar. It also undermines government efforts to promote formal trade and attract investment.

The government is not only targeting smugglers but also cleaning up corruption within its own ranks.

Muguti revealed that surveillance systems have been deployed at roadblocks and within transport corridors to monitor the activities of officials.

“Let this be a warning to any government personnel complicit in these activities. There will be no tolerance for corruption,” he said.

Since January, authorities have arrested over 15,000 individuals involved in smuggling, according to Muguti.

Businesses using parallel market exchange rates or selling counterfeit and underweight products are also under investigation, with heavy penalties awaiting violators.

To seal off entry points, the government has enhanced security at major border posts and established 24-hour roadblocks along highways leading into major cities. These multi-agency teams inspect vehicles suspected of carrying smuggled goods, ensuring no item evades scrutiny.

The crackdown also involves advanced technologies, including scanners and surveillance systems, to detect hidden compartments in vehicles and monitor cargo movement. The aim is to dismantle the entire smuggling chain, from border operatives to urban distributors.

Zimbabwe’s door-to-door crackdown on smuggling marks a decisive step in reclaiming its economy from the grips of illegal trade. With a multi-agency approach, stringent penalties, and enhanced surveillance, the government is signaling its commitment to economic justice and national prosperity.