Zimbabwe to Sue Lithuania Over Seized Fire Tenders
Zimbabwe is preparing to take legal action against the Lithuanian government after 17 fire tenders purchased for local authorities were seized and later auctioned while en route from Belarus to Harare.
The multimillion-dollar consignment was intercepted at the port of Klaipeda in March 2023. Lithuanian prosecutors ordered the trucks forfeited in July 2024, citing European Union sanctions targeting certain Belarusian companies under Council Regulation EC No 765/2006.
Despite Zimbabwe’s assurances that the procurement was lawful and unrelated to sanctioned entities, Lithuanian courts upheld the seizure and disposal of the vehicles.
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Harare Insists It Is an Innocent Party
According to The Herald, Attorney-General Virginia Mabiza confirmed that Zimbabwe will now pursue damages after the conclusion of pre-trial investigations in Lithuania.
“It is important to note that not all remedies have been exhausted regarding the 17 fire tenders seized in Lithuania; only the pre-trial investigative procedures have been concluded.
“Unfortunately, the Lithuanian authorities proceeded to dispose of the 17 trucks through public tenders, despite Zimbabwe’s objections.
“The next legal step is to seek compensation for the loss suffered by the Republic of Zimbabwe.”
Pursuing Compensation for Damages
Mabiza said Harare remains confident of securing redress, describing the seizure as a violation of Zimbabwe’s property rights under both domestic and international law.
“Our position has consistently been that Zimbabwe is an innocent third party and lawful owner of the fire tenders, which were procured transparently for public service delivery.
“The appeals advanced arguments against the prosecutor’s resolution to sell the vehicles, stressing that the seizure and disposal amounted to an infringement of Zimbabwe’s property rights under both Lithuanian law and international law.
“We remain confident in the merits of our case. While the courts did not halt the disposal of the trucks, the next phase allows Zimbabwe to pursue damages, and Lithuanian law provides for strict state liability in cases of unlawful seizure or disposal of property.
“We believe this will create a stronger basis for compensation.”
Exploring International Legal Options
While Harare is preparing its civil claim, the government is also weighing international legal mechanisms should its efforts in Lithuania fail. Possible options include arbitration through the World Trade Organisation, recourse to the European Court of Human Rights, or taking the matter to the United Nations.
Officials say Zimbabwe is simultaneously reviewing procurement systems to prevent similar situations, ensuring public contracts are not exposed to indirect sanctions risks in future.
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The post Zimbabwe to Sue Lithuania After 17 Fire Tenders Are Seized and Auctioned appeared first on iHarare News.
