ZIMRA blocked from seizing Range Rover

Zim Now Writer

High Court Judge Justice Priscilla Munangati Manongwa has ordered the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority to halt its attempts to seize a Range Rover TDV6 belonging to Simbarashe Zingwe, a returning resident from the United Kingdom.

Zingwe, who was granted a rebate on duty for the vehicle, was targeted by ZIMRA officials who claimed he violated regulations by staying abroad for more than six months without permission. However, Zingwe argued that his prolonged absence was due to COVID-19 restrictions, and he had initially intended to return within a few weeks.

Justice Munangati Manongwa dismissed ZIMRA's claims, stating that Zingwe had no intention of abandoning his vehicle and did not violate Section 105(8) of the Customs and Excise Regulations. The judge emphasized that Zingwe's travel arrangements and circumstances did not require him to seek written permission from the commissioner.