ZRP, Ministry Of Lands Launch Joint Operation Against “Sabhuku Deals” In Zvishavane
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), together with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, have launched a joint operation to combat the illegal distribution, parcelling out and sale of communal and agricultural land across Zvishavane District.
In a letter dated 26 June 2026, addressed to all Chiefs in the district, Zvishavane District Development Coordinator Darlington Chokera said the government is concerned about a rise in illegal land sales in communal areas.
He said reports show that several village heads are involved in “sabhuku deals”, subdividing communal grazing land, riverbanks, and state land for sale to desperate home-seekers.
“By copy of this letter, you are being notified that ZRP shall be visiting your areas during the week beginning 30 June 2026,” wrote Chokera.
The notice comes amid growing complaints from rural communities about unauthorised land allocations, which have often left buyers without title and caused disputes over grazing land.
Under the Communal Land Act, village heads have no authority to sell or allocate land for residential purposes. All land allocations must be done through rural district councils.
