Blessings Chidakwa Herald Reporter

THE Grain Marketing Board has seized 262 tonnes of maize in eight days from illegal grain dealers in three provinces of Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland East.

Seizures occurred between August 4 to 12.

In a statement, GMB chief executive Mr Rockie Mutenha said the board advised members of the public that selling of maize and soya beans remains controlled in terms of the Grain Marketing Act Chapter 18:14.

“No one is allowed to sell or buy maize other than through GMB unless if one is a bona fide contractor registered with Agricultural Marketing Authority of Zimbabwe. The GMB is working with the law enforcement agency to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act.

“Anyone found in violation of the Act and the SI shall be prosecuted and risk forfeiture and shall pay a fine three times the market value of the controlled product in his or her possession,” he said.

Mr Mutenha said members of the public were encouraged to report any illegal grain trade to the nearest GMB or ZRP.

GMB has also released names of individuals that have so far been charged by the police and are set to appear in court for violation of the act at the conclusion of investigations.