MBARE – The fight against the relentless tide of drug abuse in Mbare has seen another significant victory, with the arrest of four more alleged major drug suppliers. This latest operation by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) underscores an intensified crackdown on drug peddlers and their networks, which have plagued the community, fostering crime and social decay. The arrests come amidst a broader, sustained effort by law enforcement and local residents to reclaim their neighbourhoods from the grip of illicit substances like “bronco” and “mutoriro.”
On a recent Friday, police swooped in, apprehending four individuals suspected of being deeply entrenched in the drug trade. Among those identified were Gamuchirai Chiwadza, 23, from Jorburg Lines, and Panashe Muriro, 20, of Daniel Street, National. These initial arrests quickly led to the apprehension of two other suspects, whose identities have not yet been publicly disclosed. The police reported that these individuals were caught before they could distribute a substantial cache of drugs, including boxes of Bronclear, Benylin, Stilpane, and crystal meth, commonly known as “mutoriro” on the streets.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrests, stating, “Police arrested four suspects in connection with drugs and substance abuse in Mbare. More details will be released in due course as investigations are continuing.” This statement highlights the ongoing nature of the police’s efforts, suggesting that these arrests are part of a larger, unfolding investigation aimed at dismantling the drug supply chain in the area.
A Community United Against a Scourge
The Mbare community, long beleaguered by the pervasive issue of drug abuse, has risen in solidarity with law enforcement. Residents have publicly vowed to expose drug dealers and their operational bases, committing to provide credible information that could lead to further arrests. This community-led initiative is a critical component of the broader strategy to combat drug abuse, recognising that sustained success requires collective action.
Stephen Kagoti, the Crime Liaison Committee (CLC) chairperson for Stodart Police Station, articulated the community’s dual struggle. “We want to commend the authorities for helping Mbare community fight two things – bed bugs and drug dealers,” said Kagoti. His remarks underscore the severity of the drug problem, placing it alongside fundamental public health concerns. Kagoti also shed light on a challenging aspect of the fight: “Some families still rely on selling illicit drugs and end up protecting drug dealers. This is preventing our community from winning the war against drugs and substance abuse.” This candid admission reveals the complex socio-economic factors that fuel the drug trade, making the battle even more arduous.
Police Declare War: Operations Intensify
The recent arrests are not isolated incidents but rather a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Recently, Officer Commanding Mbare District, Chief Superintendent Runwell Chipfurutse, unequivocally declared a “war against drug dealers.” He issued clear directives to his officers, instructing them to “invade all parts of Mbare and campaign against drugs and substance abuse.” This aggressive stance signals a zero-tolerance approach to drug-related activities within the district.
In a visible display of this commitment, Inspector Tichawona Matazhu led a powerful march against drug and substance abuse. The procession, which moved from Mbare National to Mbare Flats, saw a diverse turnout, including teachers, learners from Nharira Primary School, and various church leaders. Such public demonstrations serve not only to raise awareness but also to galvanise community support and send a clear message to drug peddlers that their activities will not be tolerated.
Addressing the residents during the march, Superintendent David Gabaza delivered a poignant message, urging community members to prioritise their health and safety over monetary gains. He highlighted the devastating consequences of drug abuse, particularly the surge in domestic violence and theft cases at Mbare Flats. “Abuse of drugs and substance abuse has become a thorn in families’ lives. Married women are being assaulted daily by their spouses, who abuse drugs. Some men are also facing similar challenges from their spouses,” Supt Gabaza revealed, painting a grim picture of the domestic turmoil caused by addiction.
He implored the Mbare Flats community to join forces with the police: “Today we have come to urge the Mbare Flats community to join hands with police in exposing drug dealers ruining our children, our generation and our lives. Let us expose their bases, get their contact details, and call the officer in charge. Together, we can fight this menace, protect our lives, and build our present and future generation. Let us value our lives, our health more than money.” This impassioned plea underscores the critical role of community intelligence in dismantling drug networks.
The Pervasive Threat of Bronco and Mutoriro
The mention of Bronclear, Benylin, Stilpane, and crystal meth in the recent arrests highlights the specific drugs that are rampant in Mbare. “Bronco” is a street term often used for Bonclear or alternative cough syrups containing codeine or other psychoactive ingredients, which are abused for their intoxicating effects. “Mutoriro” is the local street name for crystal methamphetamine, a highly addictive stimulant that has wreaked havoc on individuals and communities across Zimbabwe. The presence of these substances indicates a sophisticated supply chain that manages to divert pharmaceutical products and smuggle in potent illicit drugs.
These drugs are not merely recreational; their abuse is directly linked to severe health issues, mental health deterioration, and a surge in criminal activities. Users often resort to theft and other crimes to fund their addiction, creating a vicious cycle that destabilises communities. The accessibility of these substances, often through well-organised networks, makes the police crackdown even more crucial.
Broader Crackdown: A Persistent Battle
The recent arrests are part of a much larger, ongoing national operation by the ZRP to combat drug and substance abuse. This extensive campaign targets not only individual peddlers but also wholesalers, supermarkets, and even tech shops suspected of involvement in the illicit trade. The operation involves multiple government agencies, signifying a coordinated effort to tackle the problem from various angles.
Just five days prior to the latest arrests, Mbare traders lauded the police for apprehending eight suspected “crime kingpins” who were involved in selling illicit drugs, assaults, theft, and robbery cases. These individuals were reportedly terrorising pedestrians around the Mbare Flyover, snatching mobile phones and seeking refuge in the Mbare Cemetery. Mavis Maporera, chairperson of the Mbare Traders, praised the police during a drug-and-substance awareness campaign led by Chief Inspector Blessing Mutumbi. Chief Inspector Mutumbi provided his contact details, hotline numbers, and WhatsApp numbers to traders, encouraging them to report suspicious activities.
Superintendent Wilson Chiwanda, responsible for operations, assured traders of increased police patrols. “Your security and safety is our concern,” said Supt Chiwanda. “Police will leave no stone unturned in bringing all criminals to book with the help of the community. The community has full information. Please feel free to use our various means to supply credible information about these criminals – where they meet, where they stay and what they are targeting.” He further emphasised the link between drugs and crime: “Thieves and robbers are committing crimes for money to buy drugs and substances while dealers feed them for cash. Life and health are more important than money. We will not stop increasing police patrols for people’s safety as well as smooth flowing of your businesses.”
In another significant development reported on 10 February 2026, the Zimbabwe Republic Police intensified their crackdown, leading to further arrests. The Herald Zimbabwe also reported on 18 December 2025 that over 32,000 drug peddlers had been arrested as part of this extensive crackdown. These figures underscore the sheer scale of the problem and the monumental efforts being undertaken by law enforcement to curb it.
Past incidents also highlight the persistent nature of the drug problem in Mbare. In February 2023, notorious Mbare drug lord ‘Dhama’ was finally arrested, with police recovering 26 sachets of dagga and one plant of mbanje measuring 1.7 metres. This arrest, though from an earlier period, illustrates the long-standing presence of significant drug operators in the area and the continuous struggle to bring them to justice.
The Path Forward: Collaboration and Vigilance
The recent arrests of four more massive drug suppliers in Mbare, coupled with the ongoing operations and community engagement, signal a critical juncture in the fight against drug abuse. While law enforcement agencies are demonstrating unwavering resolve, the active participation of the community remains paramount. The candid acknowledgement by CLC chairperson Stephen Kagoti about families protecting drug dealers due to economic reliance highlights the need for holistic solutions that address both supply and demand, as well as the underlying socio-economic vulnerabilities.
The battle against “bronco” and “mutoriro” is not merely a series of arrests; it is a complex social challenge that demands sustained vigilance, robust intelligence gathering, and a unified front from all stakeholders. The police’s commitment to increasing patrols and providing accessible channels for reporting drug-related activities offers a glimmer of hope. However, the true measure of success will be seen in the long-term reduction of drug availability, the rehabilitation of those affected, and the restoration of safety and well-being in Mbare’s communities.
As investigations continue and the police vow to leave “no stone unturned,” the residents of Mbare are called upon to maintain their resolve, to speak out, and to work hand-in-hand with authorities. Only through such concerted efforts can the masters of “bronco” and “mutoriro” be truly defeated, paving the way for a healthier, safer future for all.