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The Progressive Zimbabweans in South Africa (PZSA) group is threatening to close the Beitbridge Border Post in an effort to pressure Zimbabwean authorities into calling for new elections. This push comes after Presidential <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa/">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> was declared the winner of the presidential election held on August 23-24, 2023, by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC). The victory was criticized by the SADC Election Observer Mission (SEOM), led by Dr. Nevers Sikwili Mumba, who deemed the election as not being free, fair, and credible. The SEOM cited concerns such as delayed voting, ballot paper mix-up, and voter intimidation.
<h3>Call for Fresh Elections and Why It Matters:</h3>
The PZSA group has stated that it will announce the date for a shutdown. The group is advocating for new elections that are free, fair, and credible in Zimbabwe. In a flier seen by Pindula News, the group added:
<blockquote>
Fix Zimbabwe, Stop immigration crisis in South Africa.
</blockquote>
A significant number of Zimbabweans reside in South Africa, either as workers or students. This has caused immigration concerns, as some South Africans believe that Zimbabweans are taking away job opportunities. Authorities have also expressed concerns about the strain on the economy, particularly in the healthcare sector. Last week, a large number of Zimbabwean nationals residing in South Africa participated in street protests on Friday, September 8. They were expressing their dissatisfaction with the election results of August 23, which they claimed were manipulated in favor of the ZANU PF party.
The Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa/">Nelson Chamisa</a>, rejected the presidential results and called for fresh elections supervised by an independent body like SADC, the African Union or the United Nations instead of the perceived biased ZEC. 
<h3>Waning chances of fresh elections:</h3>
Following his inauguration on September 4, 2023, President Mnangagwa has announced his new cabinet. Congratulations from regional and global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, have reduced the likelihood of a fresh poll. Academic Ibbo Mandaza believes that regional and international bodies “will do absolutely nothing unless Zimbabweans themselves take the initiative to use this occasion to pressure the regional body to carry out its responsibilities under the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security“
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono shares a similar view, stating that Mandaza’s observation accurately captures the current post-election situation in Zimbabwe. He added:
<blockquote>
Anyone who tells you that SADC, AU or UN will do something for Zimbabwe to resolve the election situation is lying to you. It is only Zimbabweans who can fix their problems.
</blockquote>
The CCC is adamant help is coming. Nelson Chamisa stated that his party <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/17/watch-chamisa-says-ccc-wont-wait-for-five-years-to-provide-leadership/">will not wait for five years</a> to provide leadership in Zimbabwe. He criticised President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa/">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a>, accusing him of undermining the democratic process through various coups on the ballot since 2008. He said:
<blockquote>
We will not wait for five years there has to be change now and we are going to lead in making sure that change comes to Zimbabwe. We are putting a full stop to this mess. Whatever it takes, we must provide leadership. 
</blockquote>
<h3>Some modicum of hope for Fresh elections?</h3>
It remains to be seen if there will be fresh polls. In 2008, Robert Mugabe was sworn in as the President of Zimbabwe after the presidential elections. However, the international community, including some countries and organisations, expressed concerns about the electoral process and alleged irregularities. There were reports of violence, intimidation, and manipulation of results during the elections. As a result, many countries and international bodies did not recognise Mugabe’s re-election and raised doubts about the legitimacy of his presidency. The situation led to diplomatic tensions and further strained Zimbabwe’s relations with the international community.
The reaction from the international comunity forced the ruling party to engage in negotiations that led to a power-sharing agreement between Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai. The agreement established the Governmrnt of National Unity (GNU) which was operational between 2009 and 2013.
<h3>More Pindula News</h3>

Pindula News

Progressive Zimbabweans Group Plans To Close Beitbridge Border Over Fresh Elections

A South African immigration officer based at Beitbridge Border Post reportedly fought with Zimbabwe-bound travellers who had complained about his slow service on Friday.
A witness told the <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local-news/article/200009990/sa-immigration-officer-fights-zim-travellers">Southern Eye</a> that the South African official threw away the passports of a group of travellers after they challenged him for insulting them.
South African border official Thabo Mogkola referred questions to Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza who reportedly ignored the questions.
A white female traveller who declined to be identified told the publication that the immigration officer was openly rude and his mood further darkened when travellers complained about his slow pace. Said the traveller:
<blockquote>
Travellers were also not happy about his rude manner of speaking, and they started grumbling after spending a long time waiting in the queue.
He was deliberately being slow for reasons best known to him and trouble started.
He came out of his office and started collecting passports from the crowd. He then went to a fence close by and threw the passports over.
People scrambled to get their passports, while others physically attacked him.
</blockquote>
The official reportedly fought back until some of his colleagues restrained him.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SA Immigration Officer, Zimbabwean Travellers In Fistfight

There was chaos at the Beitbridge Border Post on Monday as hundreds of Zimbabwean cross-border traders desperately tried to leave South Africa before a national shutdown led by the opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009110/hundreds-stranded-at-beitbridge">NewsDay</a>.
The EFF led by Julius Malema called for a national shutdown on 20 March to force South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to step down, accusing him of corruption.
The protesters were also demanding the restoration of electricity and an end to load shedding.
Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy secretary-general Wisbon Malaya told NewsDay that hundreds of Zimbabwean cross-border traders had their goods confiscated by South African police. Said Malaya:
<blockquote>
Actually, I am on my way from South Africa. On Friday, I witnessed the Gauteng Police arresting and confiscating the goods of street traders that are not South Africans.
On Sunday, several cross-border traders tried to come back home in a rush before the protests causing chaos at the border.
Thousands of goods such as blankets, carpets, cooking oil, yogurt, and other dairy and poultry products were confiscated.
I witnessed poor women and cross-border traders looking hopeless at the border.
One old lady fainted at the border after a load of her onions was confiscated.
There is a need to educate cross-border traders about what is allowed and not allowed at the border post, as well as how to register to trade commercially in order to operate safely.
</blockquote>
Vendors Initiative for Social and Economic Transformation (VISET) executive director Samuel Wadzai said the situation in South Africa is worrisome. He said:
<blockquote>
The prevailing situation is worrying. We have seen the deployment of the military in SA, and this will severely affect cross-border traders’ ability to trade in the neighbouring country.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

EFF Shutdown: Zimbabwean Traders Lose Goods At Beitbridge Border Post

A 47-year-old Zimbabwean national was caught entering South Africa at the Beitbridge border with illicit cigarettes valued at more than R21 million.
Peter Tambudze appeared in Musina Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo on Thursday where he is facing charges of fraud, false declaration, and possession of illicit cigarettes.
The matter was postponed to 14 February for a formal bail application, according to <a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/southafrica/news/man-arrested-at-beitbridge-border-for-allegedly-smuggling-illicit-cigarettes-worth-r21m-into-sa-20230209">News24</a>.
What happened: It is alleged that on 19 January, Tambudze arrived at the Beitbridge border post from Zimbabwe driving a truck with two trailers.
Limpopo National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi said:
<blockquote>
He declared on the SAD 500/Entry form that he is transporting cotton.
Along the way from Musina, police officers stopped the truck and searched it. They found that the truck was loaded with illicit cigarettes worth over R21 million, and he was arrested.
</blockquote>
Police subsequently confiscated the truck, two trailers, and the cigarettes.
In a similar matter:
Six people appeared in the Mable Hall Periodical Court for possession of illicit cigarettes worth more than R5 million.
It is alleged that Jan Botha, 42, Ekman Eddie, 34, Harley Reegan, 29, Sibanda Clement, 42, De Well Elton, 34, and Bhikoo Ephraim, 57, were arrested after being found in possession of the cigarettes on 27 January.
Malabi-Dzhangi said it is alleged that upon police arrival, the suspects were in the process of packaging the cigarettes inside a gas tank at Toitskraal farm.
The police allegedly found Bhikoo Ephraim, who is the owner of the farm, and they also found two suspects who were inside the gas tanker offloading cigarettes.
The driver of the gas tanker ran away and was still at large.
Police confiscated three trucks, a gas tanker, an Isuzu bakkie, Toyota Auris, and cigarettes.
The matter has been transferred to Polokwane Specialised Commercial Crimes Court for bail applications on 15 February. 
The cigarette brands were not stated. Since the COVID-19 lockdowns, South Africa has recorded an influx of cigarettes originating from Zimbabwe. 
They became freely available on the black market at a fraction of the cost of more established brands such as Marlboro, manufactured by Philip Morris and it is alleged that the treasury lost billions of Rands in revenue each month.
Smuggled brands include Remington Gold (RG) cigarettes, one of Gold Leaf’s brands. This has resulted in South African authorities opening a<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/illicit-trade-case-gold-leaf-tobacco-rudland-vow-to-fight-order-granted-to-sa-revenue-service/"> case on illicit tobacco</a>, gold and fuel transactions against <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Simon_Rudland">Simon Rudland</a>, a Zimbabwe-based tycoon and co-owner of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gold_Leaf_Tobacco_Zimbabwe">Gold Leaf Tobacco.</a>
Rudland and his Gold Leaf Tobacco say they could not be held responsible for cigarettes legitimately bought in Zimbabwe and smuggled across the border.
Last year, the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) reported that Zimbabwe had lost US$248 million to illicit cigarette deals. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Zimbabwean National Caught At Beitbridge Border With Illicit Cigarettes Worth Over R21 Million

Zimbabweans working in South Africa and returning home for Christmas with family and friends have said “money speaks at <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Beitbridge">Beitbridge</a> border post” if they don’t meet some requirements.
Returnees who spoke to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/scams-at-beitbridge-border-post/">Chronicle</a> on condition of anonymity said those who were not willing to be tested for COVID-19 stashed money in their passports on arrival at the Zimbabwean side of the border and officers stamped the passports.
This way, travellers avoid lining up for their health status to be checked.
<h2>Some context:</h2>
These reports come when there is <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/hospitals-full-as-china-battles-with-new-covid-wave/">a resurgence of COVID-19 in some countries.</a>
The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, July Moyo, recently urged Zimbabweans to exercise extreme caution in their contacts with diasporans coming home during the current festive season, and those visiting other countries in our region to protect themselves from contracting COVID-19.
Zimbabwe national police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) was taking the reports of evading COVID-19 screening seriously adding, “we are investigating the matter.”
Another returnee said that Zimbabweans entering South Africa through Beitbridge without permits simply place the amount of money demanded by immigration authorities and are allowed to proceed “without much further ado”.
The Chronicle also reported that the case was the same if a foreigner was stopped inside South Africa without possessing valid work permits – money was paid to bribe officials. 
It is not the first time reports of corruption at the Beitbridge Border Post have been reported. 
Several Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) officials were busted over the years for engaging in underhand dealings that have seen them amassing wealth at the expense of the whole nation.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Money Speaks At Beitbridge Border Post" - Travellers Speak Out

The government has said Zimbabweans that will be repatriated from South Africa following the expiration of their extension of stay must not be scared to come back as they will be welcomed without challenges.
Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEPs) facility is set to expire on 30 June this year and thousands of Zimbabweans will be affected.
Home Affairs Deputy Minister, Ruth Maboyi-Ncube told Sunday News in an interview that there are systems in place to ensure that they smoothly fit into society. She said:
<blockquote>
They (Zimbabweans) must not be scared as they are returning home. We are ready to welcome them. We have already started making preparations to ensure their smooth return.
The customs and immigration department is in the know and ready to assist. They are also aware that the nationals are returning with property and vehicles and know what to do in that regard. We promise a smooth passage as a Ministry.
We will ensure they get into our schools as long as they can produce proof of schooling in South Africa. We will then blend them with other learners in our schools. We are yet to meet with the relevant Ministry and discuss the finer details regarding schooling but we see no challenges.
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/near-expired-zeps-zimbabweans-in-south-africa-express-mixed-feelings/">Near-expired ZEPs: Zimbabweans In South Africa Express Mixed Feelings</a></li>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zeps-govt-assisting-zimbabweans-to-secure-required-documents-for-legal-stay-in-south-africa/">ZEPs: Govt Assisting Zimbabweans To Secure Required Documents For Legal Stay In South Africa</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>She also noted that the government has:</h2>
<blockquote>
i). facilitated a duty-free importation of goods, property and vehicles for nationals as they return as they are aware that returnees have accumulated movable property during their stay in South Africa.
ii). organised that returnees without identity documents go straight to the registry department and get national Identity Documents and passports. 
iii). arranged that Port Health officials demand at least two dose vaccinations, if they do not have them, they must produce a valid PCR test taken within the last 48 hours and if they do not have them, COVID-19 tests will be done at the border post.
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Govt Speaks On Zimbabweans Set To Return Upon Expiration Of ZEPs

Zimbabweans in South Africa have expressed mixed feelings as the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) facility is left with six months before the extension expiry.
The South African government announced that it <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/there-will-be-no-forever-extensions-for-zeps-motsoaledi/">would terminate the ZEP facility on 30 June 2023</a>, a decision that will affect about 180 000 Zimbabweans residing in that country.
As early as October, the Zimbabwean government announced that it was prepared for its nationals who were coming home to start a new life and would assist them with transport and other logistics.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zeps-govt-assisting-zimbabweans-to-secure-required-documents-for-legal-stay-in-south-africa/">ZEPs: Govt Assisting Zimbabweans To Secure Required Documents For Legal Stay In South Africa</a></li>
</ul>
Statistics from the Home Affairs department suggest that there has been a low uptake of other visa facilities amid reports that some Zimbabweans are looking for jobs abroad as caregivers and elementary school teachers.
On average, more than 12 000 people are entering Zimbabwe through Beitbridge daily during the festive season.
Between 5-10 December, 62 770 people entered Zimbabwe through the Beitbridge border.
South Africa’s head of immigration at the border, Cannie Magaya, told <a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/africa/news/zimbabwe-exemption-permit-six-months-before-expiry-zimbabweans-in-sa-have-mixed-feelings-20221228">News24</a> that although they had no figures yet, on the days leading up to Christmas, there had been an increase in traffic.
She said it could stay like that until early January when people start returning to South Africa.
Brian Moyo, a Zimbabwean working as a teacher in SA, didn’t apply for the special skills visa because he felt it was a waste of time.
While he is going back home in early January, he has set his sights on jobs in China. He said:
<blockquote>
I teach English and that’s not a special skill. I stood a chance as a science or mathematics teacher, as such, applying for other visas was a waste of time for me.
</blockquote>
Moyo who taught at some private schools back home before migrating to South Africa feels his experience there could help him in China. 
Salaries for teaching jobs in China range from R70 000 to R120 000, depending on the type of school and level of experience.
Another opportunity will come into effect in March when the United Kingdom opens up for teachers from South Africa, Ghana, Zimbabwe and Nigeria.
Working in South Africa has also become very difficult for those spending their money in Zimbabwe because of the rand’s volatility against the US dollar, the preferred currency of trade.
During the festive season, R100 is the equivalent of $5.80, but most shops or businesses only value it at $5.
Steven Tshuma, another Zimbabwean based in South Africa said he is starting a nurse aid course with the Red Cross in SA early next year to capacitate him to work in Canada or Australia.
Tshuma who works at a restaurant and has come face to face with members of Operation Dudula – a vigilante group that intimidates migrants, says he has no excuse to be in South Africa as Dudula “could burn us alive.”
By the end of October, fewer than 10% of ZEP holders had applied for the available mainstream visas.
An estimated 180 000 ZEP holders will be affected by the 30 June 2023 deadline set by the government.
Shiela Ncube, a domestic worker in Johannesburg, has no plans of leaving the country.
She hopes her boss will find a way around the system to keep her in SA.
She has been with the family for close to a decade.
Asked about looking for housekeeping jobs abroad, she replied: “No way.”
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Near-expired ZEPs: Zimbabweans In South Africa Express Mixed Feelings

At least 20 000 travellers crossed from South Africa into Zimbabwe at the Beitbridge Border Post in Musina, Limpopo, from the 23rd to the 24th of December, according to the Border Management Authority (BMA).
Unlike in the past years, travellers were not spending nights in the queue before being processed.
BMA commissioner Mike Masiapato says the Beitbridge Border Post is experiencing a high number of people crossing than other ports of entry. He said:
<blockquote>
Inside the port, all the process is up and running in terms of the ICT or the computers.
We always have challenges where during load shedding the system is always going down.
This time we make sure that we have experts on the ground, so the capacity is here, additional capacity.
I can indicate that the average we are able to process over a period is about 15 000.
Last, we have processed over 14 000 and up to this point, we processed over 8 000 trucks. We processed about 600 in a 24-hour basis.
</blockquote>
People who were crossing to the Zimbabwean side at Beitbridge Border Post from South Africa commended border officials for improving services. One of the travellers said:
<blockquote>
The service at the border, I just arrived now but it’s moving. I hope we are going to reach home in time.
Me, I would clap for immigration because there are no queues. These guys are well-organised. It is moving 100%; I give them a clap.
</blockquote>
However, traffic was heavily congested on the N1 road between Musina, a town in South Africa, and the border post. |<a href="https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/more-than-20-000-immigrants-cross-from-south-africa-into-zimbabwe-at-the-beitbridge-border-post/"> SABC News</a>

More Than 20 000 Travellers Cross Into Zimbabwe Through Beitbridge Border Post

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) says it has deployed adequate personnel and material resources at all the country’s borders in anticipation of increased volumes of human and vehicular traffic this festive season.
In a statement on Friday, ZIMRA said it has deployed more workers to Beitbridge and Plumtree which are usually the busiest inland ports of entry during peak periods and major holidays. It said:
<blockquote>
We have put in place measures at all our border posts to efficiently manage the seasonal influx of travellers and traffic over the festive season.
Traditionally, traffic increases at Beitbridge and Plumtree border posts between mid-December and the first week of January.
This consists mainly of private travellers being Zimbabweans visiting their families, visitors coming to visit friends or relatives, tourists on holiday and other nationals transiting to destinations beyond our borders, all using either private or public transport.
… On the software front, the electronic Temporary Import Permits (e-TIP)) application has been enhanced to ensure that the motoring foreign travellers can easily log on and complete their applications prior to their arrival at the port, thus minimising dwell time at the border.
Furthermore, the two borders close to Plumtree – Mphoengs and Maitengwe – have also been duly capacitated to receive significant private traffic in an effort to reduce the load on the Plumtree Border Post.
Travellers can thus make a choice on which of these ports of entry is closest to their location and plan accordingly.
</blockquote>
It is estimated that Beitbridge and Plumtree handle over seven million and three million travellers annually, respectively. | <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/additional-staff-deployed-at-borders-authorities-ready-for-festive-season-traffic/">The Sunday News</a>

Additional Human, Material Resources Deployed At Borders -ZIMRA

Zimbabwean comedian <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Baba_Tencen">Baba Tencen</a> born <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Baba_Tencen">Pepukai Zvemhari</a> has commended President  Emmerson Mnangagwa for the refurbishment of the Beitbridge Border Post.
In a video shot on the 29 of November 2022 (today), Baba Tencen urged other Zimbabweans to come on the ground to see for themselves instead of relying on social media reports.
Baba Tencen who is based in South Africa said:
<blockquote>
1). The Beitbridge Border Post was the best in Africa,
2). The Beitbridge Border Post was almost at the same level with American borders,
3). Roads are being rehabilitated in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Watch the video below for more:
<div><video controls="controls" height="640" preload="metadata" width="360"><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Baba-Tencen.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Baba-Tencen.mp4</a></video></div>
The third phase of the Beitbridge border mordenisation project opened to light vehicles and pedestrians on Saturday. The border is being upgraded in three phases; freight terminal, bus terminal and light vehicle terminals.
See pictures (by Zimpapers’ Thupeyo Muleya) of the refurbished Beitbridge Border Post:
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

WATCH: Comedian Baba Tencen Commends ED For Beitbridge Border Post Refurbishments

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has ordered the removal of touts and other illegal vendors from the new Beitbridge border post.
This comes after the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development complained that touts were tarnishing the image of the country and hindering smooth cross-border movement.
The touts claim to be able to expedite border crossing into and out of neighbouring South Africa.
Speaking at the Ministry’s strategic planning workshop here on Thursday, Minister Felix Mhona said:
<blockquote>
I am happy we have a listening President. Recently I briefed President Mnangagwa that we still have challenges of touts and middlemen (makoronyera) at the new border post who will be waiting to intercept travellers and asking for documents, and we don’t need them there. His response was, flush them out.
We don’t want interference with the operations of the border post. If you are done with your business at the border you go straight to your destination.
We don’t want anyone outside the border asking for ZIMRA documents such as manifests.
We don’t want this to happen, it must be stopped. It must be stated that no other formalities must be conducted outside the border.
Those who know, if you get into the new border post, we have all counters including the Criminal Investigating Department.
So there is no one who should stop you outside that framework.
</blockquote>
Mhona also said traffic flow at the border had increased in the last four months and was expected to reach pre- COVID-19 pandemic levels soon. He said:
<blockquote>
We are happy that the traffic flow at the new border is picking up.
Before COVID-19, the figures used to hover around 900 (vehicles) per day. With the advent of COVID-19, the number dropped to around 300 per day.
Post COVID, although we are still in the era, we are now receiving 800 trucks a day in the last four months. This means we are slowly moving towards desired numbers.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/touts-ordered-out-of-new-beitbridge-border-post/">The Herald</a>

ED Orders Removal Of Touts From New Beitbridge Border Post

The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) has condemned the move by the government to charge border access fees in either US dollars or South African rand for all commercial vehicles passing through Beitbridge Border Post with effect from 1 December 2022.
According to Statutory Instrument 192 of 2022, the new regulation will apply to both foreign and local registered vehicles.
In a statement, CCC Parliamentary Spokesperson on Transport and Infrastructure Development, Settlement Chikwinya (MP), said the new policy shows that the government has no confidence in the Zimbabwe dollar.
Chikwinya said the move is also illegal as it is against the Principles of the Reserve Bank Act Chpt 22:15 that establishes the Zimbabwe Dollar as a legal tender.
He said CCC will challenge the legality of Statutory Instrument 192 of 2022 gazetted by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development in the courts. Read Chikwinya’s statement below:
<blockquote>
We strongly condemn the forced USD Toll fees at Beitbridge Border Post that will come into effect on the 1st of December 2022.
On 11 February 2022, the government of Zimbabwe gazetted SI 192/2022 which states that toll fees for Commercial vehicles at Beitbridge Border Post are payable exclusively in USD and SA Rands irrespective of the vehicle’s country of registration.
This means that even vehicles registered in Zimbabwe and owned by Zimbabweans will have to pay toll fees in USD or SA Rands.
CCC views this irrational move by the Min of Transport &amp; Infrastructure Hon Felix Mhona as not only illegal but very insensitive considering that the majority of Citizens in Zimbabwe who earn a legitimate income are earning ZW$ especially the C/Servants &amp; most working class.
The latest punitive action by the government on the motoring public that intends to use the B/B remains illegal in that it goes against the Principles of the Reserve Bank Act Chpt 22:15 that establishes the Zimbabwe Dollar as a legal tender and a currency of choice for Zimbabweans.
It remains illogical and very much so illegal for the same government that in February of 2019 promulgated SI33/2019 introducing the RTGS electronic transactions platform and further in June 2019 enacted SI142/2019 firmly introducing back the Zimbabwe Dollar to the market.
The same government now disregards the same Zimbabwe dollar and RTGs for toll fees exclusive to Beitbridge Border Post, how a national piece of legislation will apply to one border post and not others in a country with 8 border posts remains baffling.
In SI192/2022, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development completely ignores the intention of Parliament in enacting the Reserve Bank Act as read together with various Statutory Instruments that seek to establish the multi-currency regime.
The Minister of Transport further contradicts his counterpart, the Minister of Finance and Economic Development Prof Mthuli Ncube.
On 27 June 2022, Ncube addressed the nation and said, “The Market’s lack of confidence in Multi-currency is causing us problems, but I am here to assure you it will remain in place for the next five years.” (APANews).
Hon Mhona further rubbishes his boss’ powers who through the use of Presidential Powers ( Temporary Measures ACT) enacted SI 118A/2022.
The act establishes the Multi-Currency regime and provides for penalties to anyone or entity that refuses to trade in the currencies defined in the Multi-Currency basket with the Zimbabwe Dollar included.
This law runs for the whole duration of the National Development Strategy 1 Policy that is from 1 January 2021 to December 2025. This law runs for the whole duration of the National Development Strategy 1 Policy that is from 1 January 2021 to December 2025.
All the Minister of Transport is showing is a lack of confidence in the Zimbabwe Dollar and policies by his government and ruling party Zanu-PF and its leader Emerson Mnangagwa.
The Citizens Coalition for Change views the introduction of the exclusive USD payment for toll fees payment as an increase in the cost of doing business at B/Boarder Post that will result in most commercial vehicles avoiding this Border Post &amp; using other ports of entry.
Foreigners have already begun shunning Beitbridge Border Post in preference for Kazungula Border Post en route to Zambia and DRC. This will definitely affect business in the expanding town of Beitbridge.
The new Policy by Government at Beitbridge Border Post does not come as a surprise as the main Contractor who was awarded the tender to rehabilitate the Border Infrastructure is Mr Glynn Cohen with his Company Zimborders.
Mr Cohen, born in Zimbabwe now resides in Monaco, a tax haven island on the offshores of Italy and obvious all the USD payments are now being looted and shipped to the tax haven island.
Mr Cohen intends to quickly recoup his money before the 2023 general Elections, a move borne out of a lack of confidence in ZANU PF  winning the next election. The Citizens Coalition for Change condemns this illegal looting of public funds through such lawfare.
The Citizens Coalition for Change will definitely put SI 192/2022 to a challenge in the courts of Law fully confident that a fair and reasonable court will outlaw this piece of unjust legislation.
Once in government after the 2023 elections, a Citizens Coalition for Change government will facilitate a conducive business environment at all Border Posts for ease of doing business for cross-border commercial traders and the general motoring public.
We shall instill confidence in our local currency through increased production and good governance in all sectors of the economy through committed respect for the rule of law.
</blockquote>

CCC Condemns New Policy On Border Access Fees, Vows To Challenge Law In Court

The government of Zimbabwe gazetted Statutory Instrument (SI) 192 of 2022 on Friday 11 November 2022 stating that toll fees at Beitbridge Border Post are now payable exclusively in US dollars and South African Rand. Read the SI seen by Pindula News:
<blockquote>
<h2>Statutory Instrument 192 of 2022.</h2>
[CAP. 13:13 Toll Roads (Beitbridge Border Post Modernisation Project) (Amendment) Regulations, 2022 (No. 1)
IT is hereby notified that the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development has, in terms of section 6 of the Toll Roads Act [Chapter 13: 13], hereby made the following regulations:—
1. These regulations may be cited as the Toll Roads (Beitbridge Border Post Modernisation Project) (Amendment) Regulations, 2022 (No. 1). 
2. The Toll Roads (Beitbridge Border Post Modernisation Project) Regulations, 2020, issued in Statutory Instrument 127 of 2020, are amended in section 5 (“Amount and collection of project ton—
(a) by the repeal of subsection (1) and the substitution of the following—
“5. Subject to section 6, any person in charge of or driving a commercial vehicle passing through the Beitbridge Border Customs Area shall pay the project toll at the designated office of the Beitbridge Border Customs Area exclusively in USD or South African Rand, as specified in the Schedule.”; 
(b) by the repeal of subsection (2).
</blockquote>
A notice that was issued by Zimborders following the SI stated that Zimbabwe dollars are no longer acceptable. Read the notice:
<blockquote>
Beitbridge Currency Change Notification
Important Notice to all Commercial Trucks
We would like to take this opportunity to advise our customers, as per the revised Statutory Instrument published on 11 November 2022. ZWL will no longer be accepted as the currency of receipt, irrespective of vehicle country of registration. This will come into effect 1st December 2022 and request that you please make the necessary arrangements to ensure you are not inconvenienced at the Border.
Thanking you Zimborders
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Toll Fees At Beitbridge Border Post Now Payable Exclusively In US$ And South African Rand

Security agents implementing an operation dubbed “No to Cross border Crimes” Thursday intercepted copper cables worth around US$100 000 that were being smuggled to South Africa. 
The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Energy_Distribution_and_Transmission_Company">Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC)</a> and the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Railways_of_Zimbabwe">National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ)</a> have positively identified part of the recovered cables as theirs.
The police are yet to make arrests after the driver of the truck that was carrying the cables fled upon sensing that he had been detected by intelligence officials at the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Beitbridge">Beitbridge Border Post.</a>
Team leader, Chief Superintendent Bekezela Ndlovu said intensive investigations into the matter were underway. She told <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/trucker-transporting-us100-000-stolen-zesa-cables-flees-from-police-at-border/">Chronicle:</a>
<blockquote>
We are yet to make any arrests and our intelligence officers are firm on the ground following up on the case.
Initial indications are that our officers reacted to a tip off and swooped on a South African bound commercial truck at the border.
Unfortunately, the truck driver escaped before they could get to him and we have leads and are looking for him.
</blockquote>
Ndlovu said following a physical examination, it was discovered that the truck was laden with nearly 5 tonnes of copper cables with a street value of US$97 400.
She said the copper cables, copper scrap, used cans consignment, the horse and trailer had been seized and handed over to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Revenue_Authority">Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).</a>
Ndlovu said they had deployed enough manpower and discovered the methods some criminals are using to smuggle goods in and out of the country. 
She said police had also busted a number of warehouses around Beitbridge town which were being used to store smuggled goods from South Africa.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Beitbridge: Security Intercept US$100K Worth Of Copper Cables Being Smuggled To South Africa

Traffic congestion at Beitbridge Border Post, which is common during the Christmas and New Year holidays, will soon be a thing of the past, a senior immigration official has said.
The Beitbridge Border Post is currently being modernised at a cost of US$300 million, with key infrastructure due for completion by November 2022.
Speaking in an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/congestion-at-beitbridge-border-will-be-history">The Sunday Mail’s</a> Tanyaradzwa Rusike, Chief Immigration Officer, Respect Gono, said the renovations will ease congestion at the border and speed up the roll-out of the one-stop border post concept between Zimbabwe and South Africa. She said:
<blockquote>
Renovation of the border post itself should be complete by November 20, 2022.
In other words, phase three, which includes the passenger terminal, will be completed by the end of this month, meaning the border will be available for full utilisation by travellers for this festive season.
However, the whole project should be completed by the end of May 2023. This includes accommodation for staff and other aspects.
Once the renovation programme is completed, we indeed expect congestion to be a thing of the past, because the border upgrades ensure separation of traffic, which results in the fast and efficient movement of people and goods.
Travellers will be pleased to know that things are continuing to get better at the border.
In that regard, we expect that the situation will further improve on completion of the pedestrian and light vehicles terminal by the end of November 2022.
Proper signage has assisted in the smooth flow of persons and processes.
An automated traffic control system, which is now in place, also ensures efficiency and orderliness.
</blockquote>
Gono revealed that from January to September 2022, they had 2 012 559 entries and 1 463 321 exits, giving a total of 3 475 880 who passed through the border this year.
She said that at peak, such as the forthcoming festive season, they are expecting to handle between 30 000 to 35 000 per day.
Gono expressed confidence that border authorities will be able to handle the huge numbers without congestion.

"Congestion At Beitbridge Border Will Soon Be History"

Unknown gunmen on Saturday morning shot at a Beitbridge-bound Bridgestone Bus Service coach and shattered some of its windows but no one was seriously injured in the incident.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200001298/gunmen-open-fire-on-bus">NewsDay</a> reports that the shooting occurred 10 kilometres from the border town on the Masvingo highway.
One woman passenger is reported to have been cut slightly by flying glass.
The officer commanding Beitbridge Police District Chief Superintendent Tichaona Nyongo said police picked the incident on social adding that no official report had been made. He said:
<blockquote>
We got that (report through an) audio and police reacted up to Lutumba but saw nothing. What really troubles me is no official report has been received other than this audio we picked from social media.
</blockquote>
Nyongo said investigations were underway.
Melody Mabonga, a government officer travelling on the bus sent distress audio soon after the attack and said the suspected gunmen drove fast alongside the bus which did not stop despite some stones having been laid across the road. Said Mabonga:
<blockquote>
The driver had slowed down for a road construction hump when shots were fired at the bus but he accelerated and did not stop. There were stones laid across the road and we observed a minibus driving fast alongside the bus. Shots hit the rear windows.
</blockquote>
The conductor of the bus Givemore Matemadanda said the bus carrying about 40 passengers was hit on the right side and the missile went out through the left rear side.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Gunmen Shoot At A Beitbridge-bound Bus

There is a video circulating on social media which shows dozens of cigarettes being smuggled into South Africa from Zimbabwe. Although the date of the incident could not be ascertained, we do believe it was after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Massive quantities of cigarettes poured across the Limpopo border from Zimbabwe when South Africa banned the sale of cigarettes to prevent the spread of COVID-19. They became freely available on the black market at a fraction of the cost of more established brands such as Marlboro, manufactured by Philip Morris and it is alleged that the treasury lost billions of Rands in revenue each month. Watch the video recently posted by Star FM Zimbabwe:
<div>
<video controls="controls" height="426" preload="metadata" width="236"><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Cigarettes.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Cigarettes.mp4</a></video></div>
Brands that have been poured into South Africa include Remington Gold (RG) cigarettes, one of Gold Leaf’s brands. This has resulted in South African authorities opening a<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/illicit-trade-case-gold-leaf-tobacco-rudland-vow-to-fight-order-granted-to-sa-revenue-service/"> case on illicit tobacco</a>, gold and fuel transactions against <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Simon_Rudland">Simon Rudland</a>, a Zimbabwe-based tycoon and co-owner of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gold_Leaf_Tobacco_Zimbabwe">Gold Leaf Tobacco.</a>
Rudland and his Gold Leaf Tobacco say they could not be held responsible for cigarettes legitimately bought in Zimbabwe and smuggled across the border.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

WATCH: Boxes Of Cigarettes Being Smuggled Into South Africa

Severe power cuts currently being experienced in South Africa have disrupted operations at the Beitbridge Border Post resulting in delays and the formation of long queues spanning back as far as 4km.
A loss of power at the border meant that passport documents “could not be scanned by officials”, causing a major tailback, reported <a href="https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/breaking-beitbridge-border-closed-open-delays-load-shedding-tuesday-20-september/">The South African</a>.
Reports indicate that southbound cargo heading into South Africa on Tuesday remained stuck on the Zimbabwean side of the border, as equipment used to process these deliveries has also been badly affected.
Cars, trucks, and even people on foot are now being held-up at Beitbridge Border Post due to “network challenges”.
South Africa has been experiencing longer power cuts over the past few days, with the country’s power utility, Eskom, implementing Stage 6 on Sunday.

Load Shedding In SA Paralyses Operations At Beitbridge Border Post

South Africa’s Home Affairs Department has responded to reports made on 15 September that the department was blocking some Zimbabweans who were intending to pass through the Beitbridge border post to Zimbabwe.
<a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/southafrica/news/zimbabweans-trying-to-leave-sa-not-being-turned-back-home-affairs-explains-20220919">News24</a> reported that the new Border Management Authority guards in Musina, Limpopo were blocking the travellers. Reads the statement issued by the department in response to the reports:
<blockquote>
Border Guards are doing access control duties at the Beitbridge Border Post and they direct the Zimbabweans wanting to go back to their home country to the relevant queues so that they can be documented in accordance with the Immigration Act. This means that they need to be fingerprinted and have their demographic details taken.
However, there are people who have refused to be documented on their departure. They believe that now that they are going back home, nobody needs to ask them any questions at our border.
Nobody will be allowed to just waltz through our border to and fro without being documented. There are no exceptions in this regard, whether you go through a land port, sea port or an airport. This is regardless of your nationality.
There is no way South Africa will refuse anybody from going back home. But similarly, South Africa can’t just allow anybody to move in and out of the country without it being recorded anywhere.
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

South Africa Speaks On Blocking Some Zimbabweans Intending To Return Home

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Revenue_Authority">Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA)</a> has identified the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Beitbridge">Beitbridge Border Post</a> as the country’s major corruption hot spot.
<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zimra-flags-beitbridge-as-corruption-hotspot/">The Herald’s Mashudu Netsianda reports</a> that ZIMRA is investigating three Beitbridge-based revenue officers who built mansions in Harare, but failed to account to their employer how they raised the money following a lifestyle audit. 
The revenue authority could, however, not release the names of the officers since the matter is still under investigation.
This emerged during a stakeholders’ workshop on the progress made in the fight against corruption held in Bulawayo recently. 
Presenting a lifestyle audit report to parliamentarians and other stakeholders during the meeting, ZIMRA loss control manager Mr Selleck Mapfeka said lifestyle auditing or monitoring is a basic comparison of one’s proceeds or sources of income against how it is utilised.
It is an accountability tool which is conducted when the visible lifestyle or standard of living of an individual appears to exceed their known income levels. He said:
<blockquote>
We are currently investigating three officers who built mansions in Harare, but failed to explain how they acquired the wealth following a lifestyle audit.
We also have another officer who built a block of flats and he has since resigned. The lifestyle audit also revealed that some ZIMRA revenue officers based in Beitbridge had six properties acquired through shady deals at the border.
</blockquote>
Mapfeka also mentioned the case of a former Beitbridge-based ZIMRA revenue officer <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/08/29/ex-zimra-officer-in-trouble-over-lifestyle-unexpected-of-revenue-officer/">Mr Kennedy Nyatoti,</a> who made history by becoming the first person to lose assets under the country’s civil-based asset forfeiture law when his US$150 000 mansion in Harare and US$10 000 car were forfeited to the State. 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/08/29/ex-zimra-officer-in-trouble-over-lifestyle-unexpected-of-revenue-officer/">Nyatoti’s Case:</a></h2>
<blockquote>
a). He joined Zimra in 2014 aged 25 and two years down the line he got married and paid lobola of US$10 000. 
b). In 2017, he took his family on a holiday to China and spent US$15 000.
c). During the same year, he bought a residential stand for US$24 000 and under-declared that it was worth US$18 000. 
d). He built and completed his house in five months. 
e). It was established that Nyatoti was fraudulently clearing immigrants’ rebates for people not qualifying to bring in goods duty-free under the rebate facility.
</blockquote>
Back then, the State could only apply for forfeiture after a conviction for a corruption-related offence but now, the law allows the State to apply for forfeiture under civil rules even without instituting criminal proceedings.
Mapfeka said most of the assets are being recovered through inter-agency collaborations and the involvement of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) through prosecutor-guided investigations.
He added that there is nothing wrong with owning properties, but there is something terribly wrong if owners can’t explain their source of wealth.
A total of US$50 million was recovered from conviction-based asset forfeiture in 2021 and police say they arrested 495 suspects for corruption-related cases in the same year.
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ZIMRA Says Beitbridge Border Post Is A Corruption Hot Spot

Border towns have welcomed plans by the government to reopen the country’s borders, saying it would provide relief to them in terms of employment creation and the revival of business.
Victoria Falls mayor Somveli Dlamini told NewsDay that the closure of borders negatively affected the tourism industry in the resort town. Dlamini said: 

<blockquote>
We have three borders, which are Victoria Falls, Kazungula and Pandamatenga.
The closing of these borders affected us severely as business is slow. The reopening of these borders will boost our tourism industry as it is our sole industry and this will create employment.
People used to get medical treatment in Zambia since their nearest hospitals are in Livingstone, but they could no longer do so due to COVID-19 restrictions.
</blockquote>
Beitbridge town clerk Loud Ramakgapola said the reopening will be a big relief for residents of this town as they rely on cross-border trade.
Ramakgapola added that the move will capacitate residents to pay their rates to the local government authority. 

Last month, the government announced that the Victoria Falls and Kazungula border posts would be reopened to fully vaccinated tourists.
During a post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, Information minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the government’s decision to reopen the Victoria Falls and Kazungula border posts to fully vaccinated travellers was in response to requests by the tourism industry.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/10/towns-salivate-at-reopening-of-borders/">NewsDay</a>

Border Towns Welcome Plans To Reopen Borders

Parliamentarians have expressed concern over deportees who are escaping from quarantine and isolation facilities.
This comes amid reports that in July and August 233 deportees escaped from NSSA Hotel in Beitbridge where they had been quarantined.
Between July 4 and 12 about 146 deportees escaped from NSSA Hotel in Beitbridge, Esikhoveni Training Centre and District Development Fund (DDF) skills training centre in Matabeleland South.
Beitbridge East Member of Parliament, Albert Nguluvhe told the Chronicle in an interview that there was a need to tighten security at the quarantine and isolation centres. He said:
<blockquote>
As Matabeleland South Province we have a huge problem especially in Beitbridge of deportees that escape from quarantine and isolation centres. Beitbridge is an entry point for many people and already that puts the people there at risk. It even becomes worse because of people that are escaping from quarantine centres. Some of these people do this under the watchful eye because of some rogue elements within law enforcement agents.
This matter has to be looked into as it exposes not only the population of Matabeleland South only but the entire country as some of these people who escape proceed to their respective provinces. We can’t have people that are so risky moving around willy nilly.
</blockquote>
Beitbridge West Member of Parliament, Ruth Maboyi reiterated Nguluvhe’s remarks saying quarantine centres need perimeter fences and doors locks. 
Matabeleland South provincial social welfare officer, Mr Criswell Nyakudya said they had engaged law enforcement agents in order to tighten security at quarantine centres. 
Most of the coronavirus cases recorded in Zimbabwe this year were community transmissions and deportees escaping from quarantine centres might have contributed, significantly. 

More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/deportees-continue-escaping-from-quarantine-centres/">The Chronicle</a>

Parliamentarians Raise Concern Over Deportees Escaping Isolation Centres

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced that 45 146 people were arrested across the country since January 2021 for various cross border crimes.
Police posted on Twitter saying they arrested 140 people in August for illegal border crossing in Beitbridge, Mukumbura and Nyamapanda while two others were arrested for smuggling at the Plumtree Border Post. Read the tweet:
<blockquote>
On August police arrested 140 people for illegal border crossing in Beitbridge, Mukumbura and Nyamapanda. Meanwhile, two people were arrested for smuggling at the same day at Plumtree Border Post. Police recovered assorted electrical gadgets, building materials and groceries approximately valued at 24 760 pula. The Police have arrested 45 146 people across the country since January 2021 for various cross border crimes.
</blockquote>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/02/operation-no-to-cross-border-crimes-38-000-arrested-since-july/">Operation ‘No To Cross Border Crimes: 38 000 Arrested Since July</a></li>
</ul>
Police in January launched operation “no to cross border crimes/mhosva pamiganhu ngadzipere/ amacala kawaphele emingceleni elizwe” in a bid to curb criminal activities occurring at the borders.
The country has seen an upsurge of cross border crimes during the Covid-19 period with some attributing the increase to the closure of land borders. 
With borders closed for the general public, some people have resorted to smuggling goods and border jumping. 
Meanwhile, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/19/open-borders-for-the-vaccinated-cross-border-traders-implore-govt/">cross border traders have appealed to the government for the reopening of borders</a> to fully vaccinated traders so that they can resume their business. 

More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/just-in-over-45-000-arrested-for-border-crimes/">The Chronicle</a>

ZRP: Over 45 000 Arrested Since January For Cross Border Crimes

Beitbridge district referral hospital has temporarily suspended theatre services due to water shortages after the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) disconnected the whole town last Friday.
ZINWA spokesperson Mrs Marjorie Munyonga said in a statement Monday that they were owed a total of $205 million by Beitbridge Municipality of which $140 million is the subject of an ongoing High Court case.
The parastatal discontinued services over a $65 million debt owed by Beitbridge Municipality for the period January to June 2021.
Beitbridge District Medical Officer Dr Lenos Samhere said they had been plunged into a crisis considering that water was very critical in their operations. Dr Samhere said:
<blockquote>
We need water for cleaning the wards, washing and sterilising theatre and maternity ward equipment, and in the Covid-19 isolation centre.
Now, we have a crisis. So, we have temporarily suspended all theatre-related services and we have to refer patients to other major hospitals in the region.
</blockquote>
Dr Samhere said the hospital handles a daily average of at least 10 cases in the theatre and a minimum of 10 deliveries in the maternity ward.
He said they had also moved COVID-19 serious patients from the isolation centre at NSSA Hotel to the main hospital for close monitoring as a result of the ongoing water crisis.
The 140-bed hospital is a referral centre for 250 000 people from the district’s 17 primary health care facilities, and others from Mwenezi and Masvingo district.
In addition, it serves part of the 15 000 people who transit through the town daily, mostly those who fall sick or are involved in road accidents on their journeys to inland Zimbabwe or South Africa.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/beitbridge-hospital-suspends-theatre-services-after-zinwa-cuts-water-supplies/">The Herald</a>

Beitbridge Hospital Suspends Theatre Services Over Water Challenges

About 38 000 people have been arrested since the 1st of July when operation “No to Cross Border Crimes” was launched.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police announced that over 170 people were arrested on Sunday. Said the police in a statement this Monday:
<blockquote>
On 01/08/21, Police arrested 176 people for cross border-related crimes while 106 others were arrested under operation, code-named, ‘Usalama V11’.
A total of 38 000 people have been arrested, since the inception of operation ‘No to Cross Border Crimes/ Fhasi Ngamilandu Yamukanoni Yamashango/ Mhosva Pamiganhu Ngadzipere/ Amacala Kawaphele Emingceleni Eelizwe’, on 07/01/21.
</blockquote>
With both Zimbabwe and South Africa closing their borders to curb COVID-19, many Zimbabweans have been caught attempting to jump the border from and or into South Africa.
Some will be escaping from the biting economy in Zimbabwe or will be going to the other side of the border to purchase goods for resell in Zimbabwe.
The lockdowns in South Africa have forced some, especially the undocumented, to risk their lives by crossing the border at undesignated points.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Operation ‘No To Cross Border Crimes: 38 000 Arrested Since July

The Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has disconnected purified bulk water supply to Beitbridge town with immediate effect. The local authority made the announcement last Friday saying the disconnection was a result of arrears. We present Beitbridge Municipality’s statement below.
<blockquote>
<h2> MUNICIPALITY OF BEITBRIDGE</h2>
<h2>Public Notice Water Disconnection</h2>
 Reference to notice 39, the Municipality of Beitbridge would like to advise residents that Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has disconnected purified bulk water supply to Beitbridge town with immediate effect. This is due to council accounts being in arrears. 
The disconnection leaves the whole town without running water. The municipality is appealing to residents and stakeholders to promptly make payments so that water can be restored. 
Our sincere apologies for the inconvenience this may have caused. 
<h2>BY MANAGEMENT </h2>
Notice: 41/2021 
Issued: 30/07/2021 
</blockquote>
ZINWA also recently disconnected Gwanda, a move that affects 20 000 residents.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a></h2>

ZINWA Disconnects Water Supply To Beitbridge

Eighty-one (81) people including twenty-nine (29) who are COVID-19 positive escaped from the Beitbridge Quarantine, Isolation and Transit Centre last week under unclear circumstances.
The Herald was told on Monday that the group included 71 Malawian border jumpers who were arrested by the police last week while en-route to South Africa.
Ten other members of the group were Zimbabweans who had just been deported for violating South African immigration laws.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/03/31/one-of-15-illegal-ethiopian-immigrants-found-very-ill-in-zimbabwe-zrp/">One Of 15 Illegal Ethiopian Immigrants Found “Very Ill” In Zimbabwe – ZRP</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/10/29/watch-us-embassy-harare-explains-the-free-diversity-immigrant-visa-program/">WATCH: US Embassy Harare Explains The “Free” Diversity Immigrant Visa Program</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/07/09/562-illegal-immigrants-deported/">562 Illegal Immigrants Deported</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/08/04/4-malawian-women-escape-from-mushagashe-quarantine-center-3-men-from-churchill-school-in-harare/">4 Malawian Women Escape From Mushagashe Quarantine Center, 3 Men From Churchill School In Harare</a></li>
</ul>
Beitbridge district medical officer Dr Lenos Samhere confirmed the escape, but he was yet to get a full report on the nationality of those who have absconded. He said:
<blockquote>We are having a challenge of people absconding from quarantine or isolation. However, I cannot give you any figures at the moment, we still need to carry out further verifications.
Some are absconding after testing positive for the Covid-19 condition, while others are disappearing pending the processing of the results of the tests.</blockquote>
The Herald further reports that issues of absconding at the Beitbridge isolation centre have been on the rise since February following the withdrawal of the Zimbabwe National Army that was offering security since its opening in March last year.
A total of 1 391 people are reported to have escaped from the centre between March 2020 and this month.
Some have been escaping under the cover of darkness, while others are said to have bribed security personal at the point.
Over 18 000 people, including Zimbabwean returnees, deportees and Tanzanian and Malawian border jumpers have passed through the isolation centre in the last 14 months.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/covid-19-positive-immigrants-escape-from-isolation/">The Herald</a>

81 People Including 29 COVID-19 Positive Escape From Isolation Centre

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has announced that it has sealed all Zimbabwean borders to some and only allow commercial traffic and returnees to pass through.
Zimra spokesperson Francis Chimanda said any traffic that did not fit into the category of commercial traffic and returnees would not be cleared.
Responding to accusations that Zimra was undermining the Health ministry and Immigration Department by refusing to handle travellers who would have been cleared by them, Chimanda said:
<blockquote>Under the COVID19 restrictive measures, Zimbabwean borders are open to commercial traffic and returnees only. Any traffic that does not fit into these two categories is restricted from movement across the border.
This requirement is not peculiar to Beitbridge alone but to all other Zimbabwean borders. The travelling public is required to observe these requirements while Zimra is required to enforce these restrictive measures without discretion.
Public notices to that effect have been flighted in the past at both local and national level to inform the pub lic accordingly.
Congestions being experienced are due, partially, to construction work at the main parking space due to the border upgrade project, which has reduced parking space. In addition, the Beitbridge Border Post being a strategic crossing point has always been susceptible to large influxes of traffic along the NorthSouth Corridor.</blockquote>
Chimanda added that Zimra was attending to the crowding and potential health hazards created by travellers who do not meet the set travel requirements.
Protests have erupted as transporters blocked the border in protest against the move.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>; <a href="https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-local-byo-206362.html">Bulawayo24</a>

ZIMRA Has Sealed "All Zimbabwean Borders"

South Africa has deported 220 Zimbabweans, including 7 ex-convicts and 213 other people who had been arrested for violating Pretoria’s immigration laws, in a bid to de-congest migrants holding centres.
The Herald reports that most of those deported were undocumented or had used fake travel documents while others had overstayed. Most deportees were looking for<a href="https://vacancymail.co.za/"> jobs in South Africa</a>.
Zimbabweans are allowed a stay of not more than 90 days within a period of 12 months but many are extending their stays illegally and are routinely rounded up by the police or immigration officers.
Zimbabwe’s Consul-General to Johannesburg, Mrs Melody Chaurura, said their hosts have not been able to deport people in the last two weeks and that the current group had been detained at Lindela Holding Centre in Gauteng.
She said on average less than 100 people were being sent home from South Africa weekly. Said Mrs Chaurura:
<blockquote>_This is the largest group so far. It’s part of the routine weekly deportations._
_The high number is due to the fact that no deportations were carried out two weeks prior._</blockquote>
Upon arrival at Beitbridge, the deportees were screened and tested for Covid-19 with those that test positive put in isolation while those testing negative will be sent to their respective homes for quarantine.
Ex-convicts are also profiled by the police.
Reports suggest that between January and June this year, 3 203 Zimbabweans were deported from South Africa.
Meanwhile, Provincial Social Development Officer Mr Criswell Nyakudya said Government is now gradually re-opening quarantine and isolation centres to accommodate deportees and Zimbabwean returnees.
The centres had been closed as the country moved into Level 2 Covid-19 lockdown.
Millions of Zimbabweans are reported to be in South Africa after skipping the border to flee the biting economy.
Most of them stay longer than allowed in a bid to secure jobs and work permits and are sometimes caught before attaining the papers.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pinduoa News</a>; <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/sa-deports-seven-ex-convicts/">The Herald</a>

South Africa Has Deported 220 Zimbabweans

South Africa was forced to temporarily close its side of the Beitbridge border over a major fault on their water supply line resulting in commercial cargo gradually piling up.
The water crisis saw the border running without water in the last 24 hours and only skeletal staff are manning the border key points.
ZTN News reports that long-distance trucks heading to either Zimbabwe or South Africa are piling up in truck stops and major highways on both sides of the border.
According to a notice sent to inter-border management committee members by South Africa Revenues Services (SARS) senior manager at Beitbridge Ms Florah Maluleke, efforts are underway to restore normal water supply services. She said:
<blockquote>_Please note that we have no running water since yesterday, and PMC has resolved to close the Port due to the prevailing health hazards associated with this._
_The Port will close at 18h00, to allow the new pump to fill up the reservoir and reopen 0600hrs tomorrow morning. The RAMP Contractor is continuing work on resolving the problem._</blockquote>
This is the second time the border between Zimbabwe and South Africa has been temporarily closed in the last 12 months.
Last year the border was closed for 24 hours at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic when several SARS officials tested positive.
Health officials in the neighbouring country had to close the port to carry out massive disinfections.
Currently, about 1200 commercial trucks are crossing the border daily.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindiula News</a>; <a href="https://ztn.co.zw/stream/2021/06/water-problem-triggers-sa-border-closure/amp/?__twitter_impression=true">ZTN News</a>

South Africa Temporarily Closes Beitbridge Border

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