A 52-year-old Indian national Bharat Keshibha Marani has appeared before the courts after allegedly attempting to smuggle 6,597.97 carats of diamonds out of Zimbabwe through Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Bharat Marani appeared before Harare Regional Magistrate Mrs Jessie Kufa on Monday facing charges of smuggling, unlawful possession and dealing in precious stones without a licence, as well as contravening the Immigration Act. He was remanded in custody pending the determination of his bail application.
According to the State, Marani entered Zimbabwe on June 18, 2026, using a holiday visa and was expected to leave the country by July 17. However, he allegedly remained in Zimbabwe beyond the expiry of his visa.
Prosecutors allege that on July 30, Marani reported to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to board an Ethiopian Airlines flight to India. After checking in his luggage, airport security officers conducting routine baggage screening reportedly detected a suspicious object inside his suitcase.
An Aviation Company of Zimbabwe security officer, Colleta Machiwana, alerted detectives from the CID Minerals Unit, who intercepted Marani after he had already boarded the aircraft.
When the suitcase was opened, investigators allegedly discovered a silver container filled with thick black paste. Hidden inside the paste were 12 plastic sachets suspected to contain diamonds.
Police say Marani failed to produce any documentation authorising him to possess or export the precious stones, leading to his immediate arrest.
The recovered stones were later examined by the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe, where an assessment established that they weighed approximately 1,400 grammes, equivalent to 6,597.97 carats, with an estimated value of US$62,456.91.
Investigations into the matter are continuing while the accused remains in custody awaiting his bail hearing.
