Several Arrested as Police Intensify Blitz on Unlawful Explosives
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a nationwide crackdown on the illegal possession of explosives.
The police say the operation was prompted by a recent incident in which a Toyota Quantum reportedly exploded, killing all 15 passengers on board. Investigations into the cause of the blast are still ongoing, but police believe the case exposed the dangers linked to the unlawful handling of explosive materials.
Also Read: Report Anyone Transporting Explosives In Public Vehicles: ZRP Warns After Kombi Explosion
Police Step Up Arrests Across Provinces
In the wake of the tragedy, detectives have intensified operations targeting individuals suspected of illegally storing and distributing explosives.
According to Rachel Muteweri, spokesperson for the Criminal Investigations Department, the crackdown is aimed at protecting public safety and dismantling dangerous networks.
One of the suspects, a 43-year-old man from Gwanda, was arrested after detectives allegedly recovered 200 capped fuses and 49 Innopex explogels hidden in his bedroom.
Multiple Suspects Nabbed in Coordinated Blitz
In separate incidents, police arrested a 30-year-old man from Mberengwa after he was found with three emulites and three capped fuses without a permit.
Another suspect, aged 49 from Filabusi, was also taken into custody for allegedly possessing emulites unlawfully.
Meanwhile, in Kwekwe, a 29-year-old man was arrested after officers reportedly discovered a cache of explosives, including capped fuses and over 200 Emex cartridges at a local premises.
Police say the arrests are part of a coordinated operation targeting known hotspots and individuals believed to be involved in the illegal trade of explosives.
Fears Over Criminal Use of Explosives
Security officials have raised concern that such materials are increasingly being diverted for criminal activities, including illegal mining and other illicit operations.
The ongoing investigations are expected to uncover supply chains and distribution networks behind the illegal circulation of explosives.
Warning to the Public
The ZRP has warned that the handling, storage and acquisition of explosives without proper authorisation is a serious offence under the law.
Police have urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities involving explosive materials, stressing that community cooperation is vital in preventing further tragedies.
More Arrests Expected
All suspects are expected to appear in court facing charges related to the unlawful possession of explosives.
Authorities say the nationwide blitz will continue, with more arrests anticipated as investigations deepen into the illegal trade of explosives.
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