RGMIA Human Trafficking Syndicate Exposed

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

A human trafficking syndicate operating at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport has been exposed, leading to the arrest of eight officials, including immigration officers, airport staff, and an intelligence agent.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the officials allegedly facilitated the illegal exit of 23 Ethiopian nationals through Eswatini between March 15 and 16, 2025.

Two National Handling Services employees are accused of escorting the Ethiopians via a restricted VIP route and hiding them overnight in the Vakacha Lounge. The group allegedly falsified passenger records, listing the Ethiopians as Russians, Turks, Indians, and Malawians to avoid detection.

The scheme unraveled when alert immigration officers discovered the Ethiopians attempting to board an Eswatini Airline flight without transit visas. An investigation led to the arrest of National Handling Services employees Gloria Chikukwa ,27, and Ashley Zhaimu ,27.

Four immigration officers—Vincent Shoshore ,45, Gondozwa Sunday ,39, Terrence Mangwende ,43, and Innocent Tawanda Hamandishe ,54,—were also taken into custody. Additionally, aviation security officer Elliot Nhapi from the Airports Company of Zimbabwe and intelligence officer Moses Tadiwanashe Mutambai ,29, were implicated in the scandal.

The Ethiopians were arrested, convicted, and fined US$100 each or sentenced to three months in jail. The eight officials have since appeared at the Harare Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of corruption, fraud, and immigration violations.