By Fanuel Chinowaita
MUTARE, 6 July 2026 – Police in Penhalonga have arrested Erica Madhudhu (39) and Samantha Dzitiro (17) after allegedly catching them packaging dagga into sachets at Muchena Business Centre in a drug bust conducted on Saturday morning.
The two suspects, both from Chiadzwa Village under Chief Marange, were arrested following a tip-off received by detectives from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Penhalonga.
Confirming the incident, ZRP Manicaland Acting Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, said police acted swiftly after receiving information that the pair were involved in packaging the illicit drug.
“On July 5, 2026, at around 10am, police detectives from ZRP Penhalonga received information that Erica Madhudhu and Samantha Dzitiro were packing dagga into sachets at cabins at Muchena Business Centre. The team reacted swiftly and found the two accused persons busy packing the drug,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
He said the suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of dangerous drugs.
Police recovered 66 small sachets of dagga, three large sachets and additional loose dagga wrapped in a plastic paper, all of which were seized as exhibits.
The two accused are currently detained at ZRP Penhalonga pending further investigations.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka urged members of the public to continue supplying information that leads to the arrest of drug dealers, saying police remain committed to eliminating drug trafficking and substance abuse in communities across Manicaland.