By Rangarirai Shanyurai
Smugglers continually devise new tactics to circumvent the law, with some using unconventional methods such as hiding goods in hearses and other vehicles that are less likely to be thoroughly inspected.
The use of car haulers to smuggle contraband is particularly alarming, as it exploits the trust placed in legitimate transportation services.
A car hauler driver was recently arrested for concealing bottles of Broncleer cough syrup in new vehicles being transported, highlighting the creative methods smugglers use to evade authorities. This incident raises concerns about the potential for contraband to be hidden in vehicles during transportation.
The 53-year-old truck driver was fined US$300 by the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court after being found in possession of unlicensed medicine valued at US$1,500.
According to a statement from the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) intercepted the truck during an anti-smuggling operation at the 110-kilometre peg along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Highway on April 27, 2025.
The driver, Pardon Sibanda, who is employed by Avecs Transport of 121 Moredwood Road, Durban, South Africa, was towing six brand-new Toyota Hilux GD6 vehicles en route from Durban to Zambia.
“Upon searching the truck, police discovered 400 x 100ml bottles of Broncleer cough syrup and 60 x 100ml bottles of Astra Pain cough syrup concealed in three of the new vehicles,” reads part of the statement.
Authorities confirmed that Sibanda did not have a license or permit from the relevant regulatory authority to possess or transport the substances.
He was arrested and later charged with unlawful possession of restricted medicines. He was convicted and sentenced to a fine of US$300.
