Gwanda Prison Drug Syndicate Exposed: Inmates and Supplier Face Charges
Written by Skyz Metro FM on June 24, 2025
24 June 2025
By Nokusa Masuku
A drug smuggling operation at Gwanda Prisons has landed two inmates and an external supplier in serious trouble, following a bust that uncovered dagga and illicit alcohol being trafficked into the correctional facility.
The suspects, Tiisetso Ngulube (56) and Hloniphani Mkwananzi (42), both serving inmates, and Etsang Mdlongwa (30), believed to be their supplier, are facing charges linked to unlawful drug dealing inside the prison.
On June 13, 2025, prison officers caught Ngulube in possession of 19 sachets of dagga and four 200ml bottles of cane spirit after returning from garden duty. Investigations suggest that the contraband was being exchanged for food parcels delivered to inmates by their relatives.
A follow-up search at Mdlongwa’s residence led to the recovery of dagga seeds, 22 bottles of cane spirit, sachets, and various food items thought to have been traded. Authorities pegged the street value of the dagga at approximately ZIG $1,400.
Ngulube has since pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Mkwananzi and Mdlongwa, who both deny the charges, remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in court on June 27, 2025.
Skyz Metro FM