By ZR Reporter
The Department of Immigration in Kazungula District has apprehended two Zimbabwean truck drivers after uncovering a sophisticated attempt to smuggle nine Ethiopian nationals through the border.
The suspects, identified as 53-year-old Joel Mhenyu and 36-year-old Pfidzai Chipuriro, were taken into custody this past Saturday, June 13, 2026, while attempting to exit Zambia en route to South Africa.
During a routine operation at the border, immigration officers discovered the nine Ethiopian males, aged between 20 and 33, hidden within specialized compartments in the chassis of two Volvo trucks.
The vehicles were immediately detained as evidence.
The Ethiopian nationals were subsequently apprehended for failing to appear before an immigration officer while exiting the country, a direct violation of the Immigration and Deportation Act. Preliminary investigations suggest the individuals were being transported in these concealed spaces specifically to evade border controls during their journey southward.
The Department of Immigration has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the full extent of the human smuggling operation and the depth of the drivers’ involvement. In a statement, the department issued a stern warning to transporters and the public, emphasizing that aiding, abetting, or harboring prohibited immigrants is a serious criminal offense. Authorities stressed that anyone found facilitating such illegal migration faces prosecution and severe legal penalties.
The Department has encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected immigration offenses to the nearest office or through official reporting channels to assist in maintaining national border security.
© Zambe Reports | June 15, 2026