In a recent legal development, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) has made a decisive move by seizing three trucks owned by Nashfreight and Transport Services, a South African company. This action comes in response to the theft of 91 tonnes of copper, initially disguised as in-transit goods, at the Chirundu Border Post.
Despite Nashfreight’s efforts to reclaim their trucks through the High Court, their appeal was unsuccessful. The company contended that Zimra had improperly detained their vehicles, which included two Scania and one Iveco truck. However, their arguments were dismissed by Chinhoyi High Court Judge Philda Muzofa.
Judge Muzofa’s ruling underscored the critical lack of evidence from Nashfreight that the copper goods had been delivered into Zimra’s lawful custody. Although Zimra’s records did not reflect the goods’ exit, the judge maintained that this did not constitute legal delivery under Zimbabwean regulations. Moreover, evidence indicated that the copper had been consumed within Zimbabwe, suggesting an illicit crossing of the trucks into the country.
Consequently, the court upheld Zimra’s seizure of the trucks and imposed the obligation on Nashfreight to cover all associated legal costs. This legal saga serves as a reminder of the stringent enforcement of customs regulations and the consequences faced by entities failing to adhere to them, especially in cross-border trade scenarios involving valuable commodities like copper.
In other news – Hopewell Chin’ono accuses Passion Java of orchestrating Wicknell Chivhayo’s Instagram account breach
In the latest twist to the saga surrounding Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivhayo’s compromised Instagram account, investigative journalist Hopewell Chin’ono has pointed fingers at fellow public figure Passion Java. Chivhayo, known for his controversial online presence, found himself at the center of attention after private conversations leaked from his Instagram DMs surfaced across social media platforms.
Chin’ono, renowned for his outspoken nature and investigative reporting, took to his Facebook page to express his suspicions. In a direct accusation aimed at Passion Java, a prominent figure in Zimbabwean social circles, Chin’ono wrote, “Ngenyi uchiheka maaccount evamwe Tswibidi Passion Java.” Read More
