A Harare woman received an eight-year prison sentence yesterday after smuggling drugs through Beitbridge Border Post. Elizabeth Marikafu, 25, admitted guilt to breaking both dangerous drugs laws. Magistrate Takudzwa Gwazemba handed down a ten-year sentence but suspended two years conditionally for five years.
Marikafu must also pay a US$100 fine for dealing prohibited medicines or serve 30 additional days behind bars. Security officers caught her on Tuesday during regular traveler checks at the bus terminal. They scanned her luggage first, which prompted them to search her bags physically.
Officials discovered 11.4 kilograms of marijuana worth US$114 hidden inside her luggage. They also found twelve bottles of Benylin cough syrup containing codeine valued at US$60. Both substances remain illegal under Zimbabwe law. Her arrest comes as authorities strengthen efforts against drug smuggling networks operating between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Marikafu must also pay a US$100 fine for dealing prohibited medicines or serve 30 additional days behind bars. Security officers caught her on Tuesday during regular traveler checks at the bus terminal. They scanned her luggage first, which prompted them to search her bags physically.
Officials discovered 11.4 kilograms of marijuana worth US$114 hidden inside her luggage. They also found twelve bottles of Benylin cough syrup containing codeine valued at US$60. Both substances remain illegal under Zimbabwe law. Her arrest comes as authorities strengthen efforts against drug smuggling networks operating between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
