Former top footballers jailed 12 years each for drug dealing

Two former soccer players who once turned out for top football clubs both in Zimbabwe and South Africa. have each been jailed for 12 years for dealing in dangerous drugs.

Tumai Matsika, also known as Abbas Amidu, who played for CAPS United and Kaizer Chiefs FC in South Africa, and Kudzai Mhlanga, also known as Reuben Mhlanga, who featured for Dynamos, were each sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment after appearing in court for sentencing on February 24, 2026.

The duo was convicted of dealing in dangerous drugs, namely dagga, in contravention of the country’s laws.

In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) applauded members of the public for their continued cooperation and support in the fight against crime, saying community involvement remains critical in combating drug-related offences.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that crime does not pay. This follows the arrest, conviction and sentencing of two former soccer players, Tumai Matsika (Abbas Amidu) and Kudzai (Reuben) Mhlanga for dealing in dangerous drugs (dagga). The two appeared in court on 24 February 2026 for sentencing and were each sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment.

The ZRP urged members of the public to continue supplying information that may assist in the arrest and prosecution of criminals, emphasising that collective efforts are key to building safer communities. *_-B-Metro_*