The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has stepped up its efforts to curb rampant smuggling at the Beitbridge Border Post by impounding buses for reinspection—even after they’ve been cleared. This new strategy, while aimed at combating illegal imports, has drawn strong criticism from travellers who say they are being unfairly inconvenienced and subjected to unnecessary delays.
ZIMRA, in a public statement, confirmed that the recent surge in smuggling at the country’s busiest entry point has necessitated stringent measures. These include the reinspection of buses cleared at the border, as part of a wider anti-smuggling campaign. The agency noted that smuggling activities have become more “rampant and complex,” often involving sophisticated networks and multiple unofficial routes used to sneak goods into the country.
“Impounding and reinspecting buses arriving from the border is part of our strategy to combat this problem,” ZIMRA stated. “However, we remain committed to respecting the rights and comfort of all passengers affected by these procedures.”
ZIMRA Under Fire as Reinspection of Buses Sparks Outcry Among Travellers
Despite the agency’s assurances, many travellers have expressed outrage over what they see as punitive measures for law-abiding citizens. Passengers, particularly those arriving at bus detention areas such as the Masvingo Railway Station, complain of long waits, lack of facilities, and disruption to travel plans.
One frustrated passenger told Masvingo Mirror, “Most of us have complied with duty regulations. We’re disappointed that after going through the process at Beitbridge, we are now being stopped again. Some of us are travelling with children. It’s cold, there are no ablution facilities, and we could be held here for days. ZIMRA must remember we have rights. Holding us without proper facilities is a violation.”
This sentiment was echoed by others who called on the government to address the root problems at Beitbridge Border Post rather than transferring the burden onto travellers. “Government must sort out its mess at Beitbridge and stop punishing travellers for its failures,” another traveller said.
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In light of the public backlash, ZIMRA reiterated its commitment to balancing national security with respect for civil liberties. The agency acknowledged the concerns raised but stressed that the escalating scale of smuggling requires decisive and, at times, uncomfortable enforcement measures.
“Smuggling has reached untenable levels,” the authority said. “We have no choice but to implement targeted strategies. These actions are not aimed at inconveniencing law-abiding citizens but are essential to protecting our economy and civil society.”
ZIMRA also clarified that only vehicles suspected of involvement in smuggling activities are being detained for reinspection. Passengers, the agency noted, should not be kept at vehicle holding facilities and efforts are being made to process affected buses swiftly. Where possible, the authority said it was working to improve coordination with transport operators and provide updates to minimize the inconvenience.
Regarding the lack of basic amenities at holding areas, ZIMRA admitted the need for improvements but emphasized that passengers should not remain at such sites unless their vehicle is under investigation. “We are actively reviewing our procedures to ensure that passengers’ comfort and rights are upheld,” the statement concluded.
The situation at Beitbridge Border Post underscores the growing tension between enforcement efforts and citizen rights. As ZIMRA ramps up its anti-smuggling campaign, questions are being raised about whether the current approach strikes the right balance.
Experts say Zimbabwe’s porous borders have long been exploited by smugglers, leading to revenue losses and undermining domestic industries. In this context, ZIMRA’s firm stance is not surprising. However, civil society groups and affected passengers argue that enforcement should not come at the expense of human dignity.
For many Zimbabweans, particularly cross-border travellers and small traders, Beitbridge is not just a border—it’s a critical link to livelihood. With buses now being detained even after clearance, there are calls for ZIMRA to explore smarter, more humane alternatives to enforcement, such as real-time cargo monitoring and improved inter-agency coordination.
As the impasse continues, it’s clear that ZIMRA faces a tough balancing act: cracking down on smuggling without alienating the very citizens it is meant to serve.
Source- Bulawayo24
