Key Takeaways
- A former Zimbabwean MP and a 78-year-old man were arrested in Pretoria, South Africa, on Friday for possession of explosives.
- The politician is a former opposition leader and a known critic of the ruling ZANU-PF government in Zimbabwe.
- The arrest followed a tip-off received by the police about the pair driving around Pretoria with the dangerous materials.
- Authorities discovered 26 blasting cartridges and 15 capped fuse connectors in their vehicle.
- The men are scheduled to appear in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Monday to face charges related to the possession of explosives.
- Their identities are being withheld until their court appearance.
Summary
A former Zimbabwean Member of Parliament, known for his opposition to the ZANU-PF government, has been apprehended in Pretoria, South Africa, for allegedly possessing explosives. The arrest, which took place on Friday, also involved a 78-year-old man. The two are now facing serious charges related to the illegal possession of dangerous materials and are scheduled to appear in court on Monday to answer to these allegations.
The arrest of the former MP has raised questions and speculation, especially given his history as a prominent opposition figure in Zimbabwe. While the authorities have not yet disclosed the intended use or destination of the explosives, the incident is likely to fuel political tensions and discussions both in Zimbabwe and South Africa.
According to police reports, the arrest was the result of a tip-off received concerning individuals traveling in a Ford Fiesta within Pretoria. The information suggested that they were transporting dangerous materials. Acting on this intelligence, law enforcement officers located and stopped the vehicle during the early hours of Friday morning.
A search of the vehicle yielded a significant quantity of explosive materials. Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed that 26 blasting cartridges and 15 capped fuse connectors were discovered inside the Ford Fiesta. The presence of such materials immediately led to the arrest of both the former Zimbabwean MP and his elderly companion.
The police spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of the charges and the importance of due process. Both individuals will be formally charged and presented before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Monday, November 10, 2025. The court will then determine the next steps in the legal proceedings.
To maintain the integrity of the investigation and the legal process, authorities have decided to withhold the names of the arrested individuals until they make their appearance in court. This measure is standard practice in South Africa, aimed at protecting the rights of the accused and preventing any potential prejudice before a fair trial can take place.
