By Panashe Karidzagundi
A 28-year-old Harare man has been jailed for eight years for having half a ton of dagga worth $52 000.
Blessing Matsikarima was busted along the Beitbridge – Masvingo highway.
Regional Magistrate Charity Maphosa presided over the case on Tuesday this week when she acquitted Matsikarima’s co-accused Isaac Marume (30).
The court heard that on February 26, 2026, the two men were intercepted at a roadblock manned by the national task force at the 80-kilometre peg near Lion and Elephant Motel.
The operation led to the discovery of a large consignment of dagga weighing over 529 kilograms, concealed in a Nissan Caravan.
Prosecutor Mercy Nyathi said Marume had initially approached officers at the roadblock, seeking permission to pass through while allegedly transporting groceries.
Nyathi said Marume indicated that the goods were in a separate vehicle and claimed to have the necessary documentation.
Moments later, Matsikarima arrived driving the Nissan Caravan and was stopped for inspection.
Marume, who was following in another vehicle, joined him.
The court heard that both men were evasive when instructed to open the vehicle, initially claiming the doors could not be opened and suggesting officers inspect through the windows instead.
After persistent instructions, the vehicle was eventually opened, leading to the discovery of 32 bales of dagga hidden beneath packets of spaghetti and snacks.
The pair were arrested and taken to CID Drugs and Narcotics in Beitbridge.
The recovered dagga was later weighed at the Beitbridge Post Office in their presence, recording a total of 529.615 kilograms with an estimated street value of over US$52,000.
Maphosa sentenced Matsikarima to 10 years imprisonment hut suspended two of those on condition of good behaviour.