The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority has intercepted and confiscated a 15-tonne consignment of illegally imported meat products in Chiredzi, near the Mutirikwi River area of Triangle, a location authorities say is increasingly being exploited for smuggling activities.
The seizure was made during a routine enforcement operation after customs officers stopped a truck bearing registration number AGZ 3488. A subsequent search revealed that the vehicle was transporting approximately 15 tonnes of meat and other food products valued at about ZWG 945,000.
ZIMRA said the consignment was not accompanied by any valid customs documentation. The seized items included 197 packages of 80kg chicken portions, seven 10kg packs of sausages, as well as various polony products, raising concerns over both legality and public health standards.
ZIMRA Commissioner for Customs and Excise Batsirai Chadzingwa said enforcement operations and inspections remain central to the authority’s mandate.
“Enforcement operations and physical inspections are critical parts of ZIMRA’s mandate designed to safeguard Zimbabweans from harmful foods, substances and illicit drugs to protect public health,” Chadzingwa said.
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“At this stage, the matter has not been referred for arrest. Investigations are currently ongoing.”
Preliminary investigations indicate that the meat likely originated from South Africa, as several of the seized products were found bearing South African labels.
ZIMRA further noted that the meat was transported without refrigeration, increasing the risk of spoilage due to high temperatures and posing serious food safety risks to consumers.
“In the end, it’s about protecting our community. We urge transporters and importers to adhere to the designated routes and laid-down procedures,” Chadzingwa said.
“The consequences of non-compliance are severe, and we will not hesitate to enforce the law. ZIMRA will continue to fulfil its mandate; the message is clear: smuggling won’t be tolerated.”
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