Bulawayo's "Fuel Mafia" under scrutiny as Diesel v...

Bulawayo's "Fuel Mafia" under scrutiny as Diesel vanishes and ambulances Grind to a halt

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission has launched an investigation into a scandalous fuel heist at the Bulawayo City Council (BCC), where a staggering 20,000 litres of diesel has allegedly disappeared, leaving essential ambulance services crippled. The spotlight has fallen on a senior manager within the Fire and Ambulance Services Department, accused of orchestrating an elaborate scheme that transformed his official vehicle into a personal fuel depot.

Sources within the BCC allege that the senior manager exploited a malfunctioning speedometer and manipulated logbooks to siphon hundreds of litres of diesel weekly, all under the guise of emergency response. The audacious operation reportedly involved the suspect filling up his Toyota Land Cruiser “Command Vehicle” twice every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday – first at the Khami Road stores and then again at the Famona Fire Station. This brazen routine allegedly netted him up to 200 litres of fuel in a mere five days.

While this alleged abuse was taking place, the city's crucial ambulance fleet is reportedly running on fumes. "One ambulance covers 320km a week and gets just 210 litres. Yet this so-called Command Vehicle barely moves and guzzles more," an incensed BCC insider revealed. The stark contrast has ignited fury among council employees and residents alike.

ZACC spokesperson Simiso Mlevu confirmed that the anti-graft body is actively investigating the matter. "We are handling the matter, but await the outcome of the internal audit from BCC," she stated, indicating a collaborative effort to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption.

Adding another layer to the scandal, inside sources claim the pilfered diesel was being resold to black market fuel dealers operating in Nketa 6, near Masiyepambili Drive. This alleged connection to the informal market suggests a potentially wider network involved in the illicit activity.

The consequences of this alleged fuel mismanagement are dire for Bulawayo residents. With a mere 7 out of 30 ambulances currently operational, emergency medical services are severely compromised. The situation has understandably sparked outrage within the community. "People are dying while someone is swimming in diesel!" exclaimed a frustrated Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), highlighting the human cost of the alleged corruption.

Bulawayo City Mayor Councillor David Coltart has acknowledged the gravity of the situation and vowed to take decisive action. In a tweet, he stated, "Council is seized with the matter. We promise transparency and will make findings public." This commitment to openness will be crucial in restoring public trust and ensuring accountability.