ZIMRA Crackdown Leaves Travellers Stranded for Days at Beitbridge Border Post

Beitbridge Chaos: Travellers Cry Foul Over Long Delays as ZIMRA Cracks Down

Travellers attempting to cross the Beitbridge border post from South Africa have cried foul over prolonged delays, with some stranded for days. This follows a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) crackdown on smugglers and counterfeit goods, targeting buses, trucks, and kombis. Unfortunately, the operation has inadvertently affected innocent travellers, sparking widespread frustration and outrage, particularly as the festive season rush begins.

“Festive Blues” for Stranded Travellers

King Jay, a Twitter user, detailed the plight of travellers, noting the inhumane conditions they face:

“My source is a passenger on one of the buses heading to Harare. They departed Durban on Friday, and today, Monday, they’re still stuck at a ZIMRA checkpoint somewhere in Masvingo. About 60 buses, 20 trucks, and numerous kombis pulling trailers are waiting to be cleared.”

He added:

“Mothers with babies are the worst affected. Imagine a three-day journey turning into this nightmare. ZIMRA should at least ensure checkpoints have proper facilities for passengers to cook, bathe, and sleep.”

Fines and Disputes Add to the Chaos

The situation has been worsened by disputes between bus operators and ZIMRA. One bus company was reportedly fined ZiG45,000, sparking a heated argument over who should bear the cost.

Passengers were asked to contribute towards the fine, but many refused.

“Why should I pay for goods I didn’t import?” one frustrated traveller reportedly shouted.

King Jay tweeted:

“Passengers, especially those without imported goods, are angry. They’re stuck in the middle of what seems to be a battle between ZIMRA and smugglers.”

This standoff has left buses immobile, with passengers stranded at remote checkpoints.

Social Media Reactions Highlight Anger and Frustration

The clampdown has drawn widespread criticism on social media, with many accusing ZIMRA of mishandling the situation.

Kudakwashe Tembo tweeted:

“These ambushes are nothing more than shakedowns. Poorly paid tax workers actually earn more through corrupt payments. It’s a rotten system.”

Tendai Mukanya suggested an alternative approach:

“Why impound the bus and inconvenience passengers? Issue a fine payable within 24 hours. If unpaid, withhold clearance on the return trip. Simple!”

Other users expressed frustration at the timing of the operation. Mangwiro Nobert commented:

“That’s why most Zimbabweans dread coming home during the festive season. In other countries, you’re treated like a tourist. Here, you’re punished for returning.”

Collins echoed the sentiment, tweeting:

“This is madness. The government doesn’t care about its people. Stranded passengers could get sick. What will they do then?”

Call for Reform Amid Festive Season Rush

Many have called on ZIMRA to conduct inspections at the border rather than at random checkpoints. Abednico Mwembe argued:

“Check at the border. Use police to monitor buses and avoid delays. Makeshift checkpoints only breed corruption.”

Meanwhile, Mzingaye Brilliant Xaba questioned the government’s lack of clear communication:

“What’s the real explanation? Maybe these buses haven’t been complying, but the government needs to be transparent.”

ZIMRA is yet to issue a statement on the situation at Beitbridge Border Post.

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