ZACC Denies Involvement in Beitbridge Fatal Accide...

ZACC Denies Involvement in Beitbridge Fatal Accident, Highlights Rising Cases of Smuggling and Impersonation

Gilbert Munetsi

Zim Now Writer

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission has distanced itself from a recent high-speed chase in Beitbridge that tragically resulted in the death of a cross-border truck driver.

The incident, which ended in a fatal head-on collision, has drawn significant attention, with initial reports linking ZACC officers to an alleged anti-smuggling operation.

In a statement issued over the weekend, ZACC categorically denied any involvement, reaffirming its primary mandate to foster honesty, financial discipline, and transparency in Zimbabwe.

“The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has noted with concern a video circulating on social media platforms, falsely accusing the Commission of causing the death of a cross-border truck driver. The Commission extends heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family and places on record that it is not part of any anti-smuggling operation,” the statement read.

ZACC also addressed the broader issue of smuggling, which continues to cost the country dearly. According to official estimates, Zimbabwe loses over US$1.5 billion annually to smuggling operations at its borders. Commonly smuggled items include fuel, groceries, cigarettes, and precious minerals.

The Commission urged citizens to comply with customs regulations by declaring goods and paying the required taxes at ports of entry, emphasizing that tax evasion is a serious criminal offense.

Rising Impersonation Cases

In addition to clarifying its stance on the accident, ZACC raised alarms over a growing number of cases involving individuals impersonating its officials. These impostors, often operating under the guise of fake non-governmental organizations, target unsuspecting citizens and businesses, coercing them into paying bribes under the pretense of “dropping charges.”

One high-profile case involved two individuals who were arrested in 2022 for masquerading as ZACC officials to extort US$30,000 from a Harare businessman. In another instance, a group posed as ZACC investigators in Bulawayo, duping a company director into parting with US$10,000 to avoid alleged legal action.

ZACC has repeatedly warned the public to verify the identity of individuals claiming to represent the Commission, urging vigilance against these fraudulent schemes.

With smuggling and corruption undermining Zimbabwe’s economic growth, authorities are calling for collaborative efforts to tackle the issue and protect public resources.