Police Fatally Shoots Man During Anti-Smuggling Operation in Mutare

Details of the Police Operation

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) launched an anti-smuggling operation following a tip-off regarding a truck believed to be transporting second-hand contraband clothes along Vumba Road. In response, a police team set up an interception point. The truck, accompanied by two other vehicles, a silver Toyota Runx and a Toyota Mark X, was halted by authorities.

According to reports, Sibanda, who was driving the Toyota Mark X, drew a firearm and opened fire on the police. This occurred after another vehicle allegedly attempted to block the truck’s movement. The police responded with gunfire, and Sibanda was shot in the neck, succumbing to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

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Arrests and Seizure of Contraband

The law enforcement also arrested three others suspected of being part of the smuggling operation. The arrested suspects were identified as Phillimon Matiyashe (32), Tawanda Chafanza (33), and Owen Wenjere (29). Police also confiscated many second-hand goods, including 104 bales of shoes and 138 bales of clothes.

Context Behind the Shootout

While the police describe the incident as a dangerous confrontation involving armed resistance, some witnesses have offered a different perspective. Eyewitnesses suggested that Sibanda may have focused more on protecting his business than initiating a violent standoff. Regardless, six rounds of ammunition were fired by law enforcement during the clash, leading to Sibanda’s death.

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