TRABABALAS CHAOS

 

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ARREST MBINGA DUG PEDDLERS, SAYS CHIEF

Chief Bere has issued a sharp challenge to law enforcement, demanding that police arrest drug peddlers regardless of their wealth or influence, citing concerns that wealthy individuals were masterminding the drug trade in the province while evading justice.

The traditional leader, born Phinias Tafireyi, made the call during a high-impact Anti-Drug and Substance Abuse campaign held in Mashava on November 28, 2025.

“The police must arrest drug peddlers regardless of their profile or financial status, It is disturbing that many ‘moneyed’ individuals are cited as the main perpetrators selling drugs to our youth.

No one should be above the law, and financial muscle should not purchase immunity while our children suffer,” said Chief Bere.

The event, themed ‘Protect, care and act together against drug and substance abuse’, also featured strong statements from government and academic leaders.

Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, implored communities to join the fight, describing drug abuse as an existential threat.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Masvingo District Development Coordinator Joyce Chikugu, Chadzamira called for a united front against the scourge.

“We need a united front, communities must stop harboring drug peddlers and work closely with law enforcement to root out this rot that is destroying the moral fabric of our society. Drugs are destroying the future, the health and economic development of our nation,” said Chadzamira.

The academic sector weighed in through Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) leadership, with Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Marian Tukuta delivering a stern warning to students.

Professor Tukuta, who was representing Vice Chancellor Professor Rungano Zvobgo, encouraged learners to remain steadfast in their academic pursuits.

“You must focus mainly on your studies rather than drugs, substance abuse steals not only your health but your future. The temporary escape it offers is not worth the permanent damage it causes to your potential,” said Professor Tukuta.

Youth representative Tanyaradzwa Makalima of the Masvingo District Junior Council provided insight into the socio-economic drivers of the crisis, highlighting unemployment as a key factor.

“Unemployment is fueling the uptake of drugs by youths. When young people stay unoccupied and see no immediate economic opportunities, they become vulnerable. Idleness is driving them toward substance abuse as a coping mechanism,” said Makalima.

The Mashava campaign was part of a broader provincial initiative to operationalize the national drug master plan, with numerous schools from Masvingo district attending and pupils showcasing the dangers of drug abuse through various presentations. TellZimNews

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CONVICTED MPOFU : I FAILED THE PRESIDENT

In a dramatic twist that captured the courtroom’s attention, business partner Moses Mpofu faced the stark reality of impending imprisonment and, in a moment of unexpected humility, extended a heartfelt apology to President Mnangagwa and the nation.

His show of remorse came as the pre-sentencing inquiry took a pivotal turn, compelling him to confront the repercussions of his actions that had tarnished the Presidential Goat Scheme.

On the cusp of a verdict that could seal his fate, Mpofu could no longer suppress his urge for repentance.

When prosecutor Mr Whisper Mabhaudi pressed him about his apparent lack of remorse towards the people of Zimbabwe, Mpofu responded swiftly, “I want to express my deepest regrets to President Mnangagwa and the entire nation for my missteps.

“My actions contributed to the failure of a noble initiative aimed at supporting our people.”

Mr Mabhaudi’s pointed remarks challenged Mpofu’s sincerity.

“Your silence on the suffering of those affected speaks volumes,” he said, emphasising that it was time for accountability.

Mpofu, a figure clad in khakis and visibly conflicted, met the prosecutor’s scrutiny with a reluctant nod, acknowledging that the apology he harboured within him had been waiting for the right moment to emerge.

“I accept the court’s judgment,” he stated with solemnity, reflecting on the gravity of his conviction.

“Yet, I must clarify that I am not the sole architect of this debacle. This was largely a Blackdeck affair, and I explained my position during my defence.”

When Mr Mabhaudi inquired why he hadn’t addressed the pain inflicted upon the scheme’s beneficiaries, Mpofu articulated a stirring resolve.

“The words for an apology have been swirling in my mind,” he admitted, his voice layered with urgency.

“I intended to demonstrate my remorse, starting with President Mnangagwa. But…”

He trailed off as the prosecutor interjected, suggesting that perhaps the apology was more instinctive than genuine.

Given a rare moment to address the court directly, Mpofu seized the opportunity.

“To the people of Zimbabwe, I am truly sorry. Each day, I regret that the Presidential Goat Scheme did not fulfil its promise.

“As a proud local business figure, I believe in the potential of Government initiatives.”

He then pointed fingers at Blackdeck, attributing negligence to its directors for failing to conduct due diligence.

“Had they been vigilant, they could have exposed the fraudulent documents before it spiralled into this chaos.”

In contrast, co-convict Mike Chimombe wasted no time as his legal counsel, Mr Asheal Mugiya, urgently implored the court to reconsider the presumptive 20-year sentence.

“While the law may suggest a harsh penalty, there are vital mitigating factors that deserve consideration,” he argued passionately, urging the court to reflect upon Chimombe’s role and responsibilities in this complex narrative.

Chimombe’s defence further resonated with moral intricacies.

Professor Lovemore Madhuku delineated how his client was ensnared in events that unfolded well after the tender had been awarded.

“The court identified him merely as a co-perpetrator,” he argued, emphasising that Chimombe could not be deemed the principal perpetrator in this vast web of deceit.

Digging deeper into the State’s negligence, Prof Madhuku asserted: “The tender committee, headed by legal experts, failed to spot the fraud at the earliest stages. Their oversight allowed this travesty to occur.”

With pointed clarity, he called upon the court to recognise the systemic failures that enabled this crisis.

As the courtroom drama unfolded, it became clear that the ramifications transcended mere individual culpability.

Prof Madhuku urged the court to send a resounding message: the failings lay as much with the state machinery as with Mpofu and Chimombe.

“Let it be known that accountability is not confined to the actions of two men but also extends to those tasked with safeguarding public resources,” he implored.

Both men stand on the precipice of judicial judgment, having been convicted last month of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that siphoned off a staggering US$7,7 million intended for the nation’s goats.

Only a fraction, a mere 4 000 of the promised 85 000 goats, ever made it to the beneficiaries, leaving countless rural families in despair.

Chimombe boasted assets exceeding US$1 million, yet as he gazed at the courtroom floor, he seemed a picture of a man laden with guilt—one who needed to compensate for his actions and provide for his 15 children and three wives.

But the prosecution remained steadfast, armed with the belief that their moral culpability was monumental.

“They enriched themselves at the expense of the fragile and vulnerable, undermining a project meant for the poorest citizens,” Mr Mabhaudi asserted, advocating for a firm sentence that would resonate beyond the walls of the courthouse.

“A lenient sentence would not only tarnish justice but would also rob the impoverished of their voice.”

With the judge listening intently, the courtroom became a battleground for justice, as both sides presented their narratives, each clamouring for a verdict that would dictate the future not just for the accused but for a nation yearning for accountability.

With the final decision looming, the stakes have never been higher. Herald

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ED BIGS UP WICKNELL : PATRIOTIC BUSINESSMAN

 

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DEAD GOGO IS ALIVE : MPILO IN SHOCK MIX UP

Imagine the trauma of walking into a hospital with grieving family members to collect the body of a loved relative that you have been told has died, only to find the relative alive and well!

This is true life experience for a Bulawayo family whose story is as shocking as it is disturbing.

The family told B-Metro they suffered a double tragedy as their relative eventually died on the same day, under unpalatable circumstances, as they struggled to process the mind-boggling issue.

Family members have told authorities at Mpilo Central Hospital they want to sue individual nurses who were on duty on the day for the “unprofessional way” they handled the issue.

Chantel Dube

Narrating the chain of events, Chantel Dube said her grandmother, Idah Mushongahande (79) was admitted to the hospital on 1 December 2025.

“She was being treated for arthritis and Parkinson’s. Doctors held out little hope,” she said.

“On 2 December at 10:08 PM, we were jolted awake by a call from the hospital informing us our beloved granny was no more.”

Dube said the family was devastated.

“We informed relatives and they started travelling for the funeral. We called Nyaradzo Funeral Services and made a claim, which they promptly processed. Dazed, we made our way to the hospital to collect granny’s body.

“Imagine how we felt when we got to the ward and saw Granny alive and well! Her pulse was strong and she did no look like she was in immediate danger of dying,” said a crestfallen Dube.

She said what made the trauma worse was that the nurses on duty were nonchalant about the issue.

“They simply told us a mistake had been made but they would not tell us who had made the mistake or explain further,” said Dube.

She said the family explained to the hospital that they had already made a claim at Nyaradzo and they needed the institution to explain the mistake so they would not get in trouble for making a false claim.

“A nurse (name withheld) said libe liyenzeleni amawala lisiya e Nyaradzo, Imagine shuwa,” she said.

Dube said tempers flared and the family told the nurses they would sue the hospital. The same nurse made a veiled threat.

“‘Manje nxa selisenzanjalo sizacina sesi…’ she did not finish her sentence as she was interrupted by someone else,” said Dube.

The family took it to be a threat and approached some senior matrons for assistance.

“The matrons were professional and helpful. We went back to the ward where we were told we were supposed to pay for an INR (International Normalised Ratio) scan at Lancet House. The nurses seemed to be giving us attitude. They started demanding things one by one to apparently send us out of the ward. We were about to go to lancet house and we passed through the matron’s office,” she said.

“We passed by the ward and we were suddenly told granny had died again. We had already told travelling family members that she was not dead after all. The nurses were going to let us pay for a scan instead of informing us. They simply said they were about to call us, when they saw us. The circumstances do not make sense to us at all,” Dube said.

She said the family wanted to sue individual nurses for the trauma and lack of professionalism.

“The nurses were protecting each other. They did not want to tell us anything. The senior matron was the only helpful one. She even used her own car to assist us in making arrangements for removal of the body.”

Mpilo Central Hospital spokesperson Matron Norma Dube was not reachable for comment. Hospital CEO Dr Narcissus Dzvanga said he was travelling to Harare and could not comment as he was yet to be briefed on the issue.

He referred questions to Clinical director, Professor Solwayo Ngwenya.

“We offer profound condolences to the family. Internal procedures have been instituted. I cannot comment fully before we get the full report. We grieve with the family and we are sorry for the trauma they went through. They must feel free to approach the hospital for any assistance,” said Prof Ngwenya. B Metro

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MAN WHO ATTACKED MOTHER-IN-LAW FAINTS IN COURT

Drama erupted in Bulawayo court this week when a 44-year-old man accused of attempting to murder his mother-in-law dramatically collapsed while stepping into the courtroom.

Khuzani Ndlovu from Nyamandlovu in Matabeleland North had to be lifted out and laid down by prison officers as the magistrate quickly adjourned proceedings.

After a few tense minutes, Ndlovu recovered and was escorted back into court to face an attempted murder charge before Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Mark Dzira. He was remanded in custody to 16 December, 2025.

Prosecutor Siphiwe Mhlanga told the court that on 22 October, Ndlovu went to Kenneth Moyo’s homestead looking for his estranged wife. Finding no one at home, he banged on the door until his mother-in-law, Soneni Muringi, responded. When she told him his wife had visited relatives, Ndlovu allegedly hurled insults, locked the doors with an iron from outside, and set her room on fire.

The elderly woman screamed for help and neighbours rushed to save her, breaking down the door just in time. Villagers chased after Ndlovu, caught him, and handed him over to police, leading to his arrest. B Metro

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WARRIORS CHAOS AHEAD OF AFCON

The Warriors’ first week of Afcon 2025 preparations has been nothing short of a full-blown rollercoaster packed with whispers, shock exits, and fiery speculation but head coach Marian Marinica insists the camp is calm, focused and “working very hard.”

Yet behind the scenes, drama has erupted since the squad first assembled.

Rumours flooded social media claiming several players had been abruptly released under the convenient label of “injuries,” and fans were left wondering whether the technical team was quietly trimming the squad. Some insiders even insisted a few players were perfectly fit when they were dismissed to allow introduction of some preferred players from powerful cartels.

Marinica, however, brushed off the speculation.

Speaking after the third day of his training, Marinica maintained confidence in his squad and the support staff, insisting that the Afcon-bound side is focused on preparing at the required level.

“The players are training very well. They are hard-working. We qualified for Afcon, and we must compete at that level. Everyone is supporting us; all is well,” said the coach, choosing optimism over the swirling controversy.

Just as the noise reached its peak, Fifa threw an unexpected curveball, confirming that foreign-based players would only be released from 15 December, a full week later than anticipated. The delay means the Warriors could be without several key players until the very last stretch of preparation.

“Things have been pushed back a little bit. We expected some players sooner. We’re not sure what’s going to happen, unfortunately but it is what it is,” Marinica admitted.

By midweek, public frustration had reached boiling point. Zifa was forced to step in after a wave of withdrawals sparked outrage and accusations of mismanagement. With fans demanding clarity, the association issued a detailed medical briefing to put out the fire.

Zifa defended the integrity of the call-up process, stating that every decision followed proper medical checks including scans, physical examinations and GPS load readings from the opening training days.

Marinica said: “The fitness element is critical because you have to be able to sustain high-intensity activity and play at least two matches of 90 minutes each. We need the fittest players possible.”

But with Morocco 2025 fast approaching, one question hangs in the air, will the Warriors rise above the chaos or will the chaos define their campaign?

Zimbabwe are in the same group with South Africa, Egypt and Angola. Herald

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ZBC RADIO AND TV LICENCES SLASHED

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) has announced significant reductions in radio and television licence fees in a development expected to ease the financial burden on households and businesses, while promoting wider access to broadcasting services.

The revised fees are outlined in Statutory Instrument (SI) 203A of 2025 and will take effect from January 15.

Under the new structure, business vehicle radio licence fees have been cut from US$200 to US$90 per year, while private vehicle licences will now cost US$84 annually, down from US$92.

Households will also benefit from expansive reductions. A combined radio and television licence has been reduced sharply from US$100 to US$24 per year. Urban home radio licences have come down from US$40 to US$10 annually, while rural listeners will now pay US$5 instead of US$20.

The substantial adjustments represent one of the most notable overhauls of broadcasting licence fees in recent years, and align with ongoing efforts to ensure universal access to national broadcasting platforms.

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TEACHER RAPES STUDENT THREE TIMES

A 40-year-old teacher has been arrested for allegedly raping his 19-year-old student on three occasions.

Stonehouse Maphosa, of Mpopoma, appeared before Western Commonage regional magistrate Pasipanodya Maturure facing three counts of rape.

He is out on bail and was remanded for trial.

The State, represented by Christina Manyika, said Maphosa is a teacher at Msiteli High School. The court heard that trouble began in August when he allegedly asked for her cellphone during school hours, dialed his number into it and returned it to her.

Later that day he called her asking if she was free, but she told him she was busy.

On another afternoon in August he called her again and directed her to his home.

Manyika told the court that he lifted her onto a sink, told her to close her eyes and kissed and hugged her.

She fled from the house. In August, he then called her to his house where he allegedly raped her.

The State claims he raped her again twice that month.

On November 11, police received a tip-off that the complainant had reported the abuse to the school and nothing had been done.

Police visited Msiteli High School on November 12, interviewed the pupil and arrested the teacher.

She was referred to Mpilo Central Hospital for medical examinations. H Metro

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JILTED PROPHET KILLS SELF

A devastating incident has shaken Chishakwe Village under Chief Zimunya, where a 22-year-old self-proclaimed prophet, Takudzwa Muchadya, allegedly took his own life after being rejected by his girlfriend.

Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said Muchadya struggled to come to terms with the rejection and had attempted to reconcile with his girlfriend, but to no avail.

The incident occurred on December 2, at the Kashiri homestead in Chishakwe village, under Chief Zimunya.

Muchadya, who was visiting his uncle, Mr Obey Matope, had met his girlfriend during his stay in the area and had begun a relationship with her.

However, when the young woman ended the relationship and left for Harare to take up employment in October, Muchadya was unable to accept the rejection.

He attempted to persuade her to rekindle the relationship, but she flatly refused.

“Towards the end of November, the girlfriend returned to her rural home, and Muchadya again tried to persuade her to rekindle the relationship, but she flatly refused. As a result of her unyielding stance, Muchadya took his own life,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.

Muchadya’s body was found hanging from a Muzhanje tree branch at the Kashiri homestead.

The matter was reported at ZRP Chitakatira Base, and the body was taken to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.

Police are appealing to members of the public to seek counselling and share issues troubling them, rather than resorting to drastic measures. Manica Post

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MADZIBABA CONVICTED OF RAPE, FACES 15 YEARS IN JAIL

Madzibaba Ishmael faces, at least 15 years in jail, after the Apostolic Sect leader was convicted of raping and impregnating a 13-year-old girl despite spirited attempts by the victim to help him escape the jaws of justice.

Harare regional magistrate Estere Chivasa yesterday found Madzibaba Ishmael gulty in the latest chapter to the drama which started with a police raid at his farm in Nyabira on March 13 last year.

All the three complainants said they had no links, whatsoever, with Madzibaba Ishmael but DNA helped the State to secure conviction.

The DNA tests were conducted by the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) and conclusively proved that Madzibaba Ishmael fathered the three children born to the complainants.

Despite the scientific evidence, Madzibaba Ishmael argued that the DNA results were tainted and inadmissible.

He also denied all allegations of rape, claiming the complainants had not voluntarily reported the incidents to the police.

The prosecution argued that Madzibaba Ishmael abused his position as a trusted religious leader to exploit and rape young congregants under the guise of religious authority.

Madzibaba Ishmael is expected back in court today for the pre-sentencing hearing.

Oscar Madhume prosecuted.

H-Metro broke the story of the police raid and Madzibaba Ishmael’s arrest and the newspaper has played a leading role in the coverage of his case.

Madzibaba Ishmael, who had been attending court coming from home, was detained in custody yesterday as he now awaits his sentencing.

Initially, he was being charged with three counts of rape and was convicted on one charge after the court found that the other two complainants were not minors as had been previously claimed.

He was acquitted of the charges related to the ill-treatment of minors and breaching the Burial and Cremation Act.

Magistrate Chivasa said Madzibaba Ishmael’s followers were stripped of their right and ability to exercise freedom of choice through oppressive religious dogma which was as good as slavery.

The magistrate said: “An accused can only be found guilty of a crime where the evidence is circumstantial if: -the circumstances from which an inference of guilt is sought to be drawn are all established, the inference of guilt is consistent with all the proved facts, and the proved facts are such that they exclude every reasonable inference from them except that accused is guilty.

“The circumstances taken cumulatively form a chain so complete that the conclusion is inescapable that within all human probability the crime was committed by the accused.

“No direct evidence is necessary for their probative value, save that things do happen that way without reason or explanation and the circumstantial evidence is incapable of explanation by any other hypothesis than that of guilt of the accused.

“Such evidence should not only be consistent with the guilt of the accused but also inconsistent with his or her innocence,” she said.

Magistrate Chivasa said while the complainants denied any links with Madzibaba Ishmael, there was DNA evidence proving otherwise.

“The three complainants all denied any link with the accused person, and even wondered why he was arrested and why they were called to come to court to testify.

“They all said they are not aware of his position at church since there are a lot of congregants at church.

“They all denied ever having sexual intercourse with the accused but on the other hand, however, there is scientific proof (DNA paternity test results providing proof beyond reasonable doubt that the accused engaged in sexual intercourse with them and bore children.

“The complainants clearly were regular congregants at accused’s shrine in which he was the founder and leader so there is no way they could not have known him after all it has been proved beyond reasonable doubt that the accused had sexual intercourse with them.”

The magistrate added: “It has to be noted that the complainants were still very young particularly (name withheld) who was aged 13 to 14 years when the offence is alleged to have taken place.

“In such an oppressive environment, in which the followers are stripped off their right and ability to exercise freedom of choice through the proven oppressive religious dogma which is as good as slavery, the only reasonable inference conclusion is that the sexual intercourse was not consensual.”

One of the key witnesses painted a harrowing picture of the oppressive religious structure where congregants where held as hostages.

The magistrate noted that the complainants, who came from different backgrounds, gave consistent evidence which was proven untrue by DNA results.

During the trial, the victims exhibited visible fear, freezing whenever questioned about the church’s doctrines.

This suggested they were still under the influence of indoctrination, with their main focus being to protect the accused. H Metro

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ZANU PF POURS US$1M INTO PROVINCIAL HQ

The construction of the state-of-the-art ZANU PF provincial headquarters and conference centre – valued at over US$1 million – is hurtling forward as some building materials, among them cement, bricks, and reinforcements, have already been delivered on site.

The ambitious project, valued at slightly over US$1 million, is taking shape in the heart of Mutare, promising to become a hub for the revolutionary party activities and symbol of its enduring presence in the province.

On Tuesday, ZANU PF Manicaland provincial chairman, Cde Tawanda Mukodza told The Manica Post that the project is a direct result of President Mnangagwa’s vision and commitment to strengthening the party’s infrastructure.

The project, which includes the construction of party offices and conference centre, is being hailed as a significant milestone in the party’s efforts to enhance its operational capabilities, strengthening its grassroots presence, and cementing its position as a dominant force in Manicaland politics.

Cde Mukodza said the 3D architectural designs were approved, and contractors are on board, with cement and bricks already being delivered to the site.

“We are pleased to announce that building materials are now being delivered to the site. We extend our gratitude to President Mnangagwa for his contribution, as well as to his advisor on investment, Dr Paul Tungwarara, and ZANU PF national chairman, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri for spearheading the development of the party headquarters in Manicaland.

“We appreciate the President’s guidance, which has enabled us to fundraise towards the construction of our own offices as a province. He is steering us towards executing this significant project, and we are delighted with the progress made so far. A visit to the site will reveal building materials being offloaded, demonstrating the project’s advancement.

“The 3D architectural designs have been approved, and a contractor has been engaged. The total bill of quantity has been determined, and we are optimistic about the project’s prospects, thanks to the strengthened unity within the party.

“We invite more well-wishers to contribute to the completion of this mega construction project. The project comprises the construction of multi-storey offices and a conference centre. According to the Bill of Quantities, the project is expected to cost slightly over US$1 million, as we aim to build state-of-the-art offices with a conference centre that can accommodate over 3 000 delegates. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this project as the ZANU PF provincial chair, and I thank my fellow provincial leaders for their support. The contractor is already on board, and we anticipate noticeable construction progress by Christmas. We envision a scenario where Manicaland as a whole will converge there one day. We have assured the President that we will construct the offices, and the project is now becoming a reality,” said Cde Mukodza.

Cde Mukodza also hailed the Presidential Empowerment Fund, which last Saturday distributed over US$650 000 to key segments of the party, and double-cab vehicles to the eight District Coordinating Committee chairmen in the province.

“The significance of the Presidential Fund Empowerment drive is that the President is reaching out to the grassroots, empowering everyone directly, not even through Government channels, but through the party.

With each of the 26 constituencies in Manicaland receiving US$26 000 for party administration and activities, this will boost implementation of more projects, capacitating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The President is directly helping to empower and develop constituencies that voted for him,” he said.

Cde Mukodza expressed gratitude to Dr Tungwarara for his role in ensuring Manicaland, his home province, benefited first from the fund.

“Dr Tungwarara did us a great service by influencing the distribution of the Presidential Empowerment Fund to benefit our province first. We are thrilled to have benefited significantly from the fund,” he said

He also thanked the President for donating eight brand new trucks to the DCC chairmen, as well as US$10 000 to each of them.

“When they are mobile, ZANU PF will never lose,” said Cde Mukodza.

He added that party candidates who contested and lost against sitting opposition legislators will administer the Presidential Constituency Empowerment Fund.

“The Presidential advisor distributed the funds to 26 constituencies, meaning every constituency in Manicaland will receive its share. The candidates who represented the party in those constituencies in the last elections, or ‘shadow MPs’, will manage the funds, under the party’s guidance,” he said. Manica Post

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