Ex-Kaizer Chiefs forward Abbas Amidu jailed for 12 years

The 35-year-old, also known as Tumai Matsika, was arrested in October last year alongside Reuben Kudzai Mhlanga during a police operation along the Kwekwe–Kadoma Highway.

According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the pair were found in possession of 750 kilograms of dagga valued at approximately USD75,000 inside a silver Honda Shuttle vehicle, wrote Afrik-Foot.

In a related development, authorities also arrested Prosper Mphofu at the Trabablas Interchange after he allegedly received a parcel containing 60 kilograms of dagga worth around USD6,000.

Confirming the sentencing on Wednesday, police spokesperson Paul Nyathi stated that both Amidu and Mhlanga had appeared in court on 24 February 2026.

"The police also confirm the conviction and sentencing of two former soccer players, Tumai Matsika, also known as Abbas Amidu, and Reuben Kudzai Mhlanga, for dealing in dangerous drugs [dagga]," Nyathi said.

"The two were each sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment."

Nyathi added that the ZRP commends members of the public for their continued cooperation in combating crime and reiterated that community involvement remains critical in tackling drug-related offences.

Amidu joined Chiefs in 2012 as a promising 21-year-old forward but failed to make a competitive appearance due to injuries. He later played for Leopards, scoring four goals and registering two assists in over 20 matches, before having stints in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.

The sentence marks a sobering chapter for a player once viewed as a rising talent in Southern African football.