Zimbabwe truck driver dumps Eswatini girlfriend at bus terminus

Gwanda, Zimbabwe — A 39-year-old woman from Eswatini was arrested and fined after being abandoned by her Zimbabwean boyfriend at a bus terminus in Colleen Bawn, leading to her conviction for illegally entering and remaining in the country.

Precious Luphoko was convicted by the Gwanda Magistrates’ Court in June for violating Zimbabwe’s immigration laws. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), she was smuggled into the country through the Beitbridge border post on June 14, 2025, by her unnamed boyfriend, believed to be a cross-border truck driver.

After crossing the border unlawfully, the boyfriend dumped her at Colleen Bawn bus terminus and disappeared, leaving her stranded. Luphoko reportedly found shelter at a nearby home with the help of a good Samaritan. The following day, the Samaritan took her to the police for assistance. Authorities then discovered she did not possess any valid travel documents or permits to be in Zimbabwe, the NPA said.

The court ordered Luphoko to pay a fine of US$150 or face one month in jail. She was also ordered to be deported back to Eswatini.

Authorities have reiterated calls for the public to respect immigration laws and safeguard the country’s borders. ity.