Zimbabwe Police Seize Over 9,000 Bottles Of ‘Addictive’ Codeine Syrup Worth R1.5 Million Near SA Border

Zimbabwe Police Seize Over 9,000 Bottles Of Codeine Syrup Worth R1.5 Million Near SA Border

In a massive sting operation targeting cross-border narcotics, Zimbabwean police have seized over 9,000 bottles of addictive codeine syrup valued at a staggering R1.5 million (approx US$80,000) near the South African border, arresting two suspects believed to be part of a larger drug trafficking syndicate.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that the bust, which took place on the 15th of February 2026, intercepted a consignment of dangerous cough mixtures destined for the streets of Zimbabwe, where they are notoriously abused by young people seeking a cheap and potent high.

SA Border Under Spotlight After Massive Seizure

The interception occurred in Plumtree when police stopped a Toyota Quantum minibus. According to the ZRP Statement, officers discovered a goldmine of pharmaceuticals inside the vehicle. The suspects, identified as Msawenkosi Ndlovu (49) and Vengai Chawa (41), were found in unlawful possession of 5,124 x 100ml bottles of Broncleer Cough Syrup and 4,170 x 100ml bottles of Astra Pain Cough Syrup.

The R1.5 million (approx US$80,000) haul has reignited fury among South Africans who feel their side of the border is being exploited by smugglers.

While Broncleer is legally available over the counter in South Africa, it is a tightly restricted substance in Zimbabwe due to its potential for recreational abuse and addiction. Critics have pointed fingers at the Beitbridge port of entry, suggesting that porous border controls are allowing these illegal substances to flow through with alarming ease.

Health officials have confirmed that these specific syrups are not stocked in Zimbabwe’s public health facilities, indicating that every bottle seized was destined exclusively for the lucrative black market.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that the fight against drug and illicit substance peddling and trafficking will continue for the safety and security of Zimbabweans.”

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), codeine syrup trafficking, Plumtree drug bust, Broncleer cough syrup, Astra Pain syrup — [Image: Zimbabwe Republic Police]

The crackdown was not isolated to Plumtree. On the same day, police in Wedza arrested Emanuel Busemani (28) at Plot 7 Investment Farm in Melfort, Goromonzi, for the unlawful cultivation of dagga (cannabis). In a separate incident in Bubi, Lacken Tshuma (55) and Owner Muleya (32) were apprehended on the 16th of February 2026 at Inunwa Ranch, also for operating a dagga plantation.

Drug Lords Targeted Nationwide

The pressure is also mounting in the southern border town of Beitbridge. Authorities revealed that on the 13th of February 2026, Tinashe Mero Shoko (22) and Eliot Badza (33) were arrested at a house in the Garikai suburb of Dulibadzimu. They were found in possession of a massive 100 kilogrammes of dagga, ready for distribution.

The ZRP is now appealing to the public to join the fight against the narcotics trade that is destroying communities. They are specifically hunting for the “drug lords” and “criminal syndicates” profiting from the misery of addicts.

“The public should feel free to contact the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703 631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197 or report at any nearest Police Station.”