Zimbabwean Citizen Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug Charges Following Illegal Entry

Tatenda Banga, a 30-year-old Zimbabwean, pleaded guilty to federal felonies for illegal entry into the U.S. and possession of firearms and drugs. He was observed crossing from Canada in January 2024, leading to an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol and National Park Service. His sentencing is set for June 12, 2024.

Tatenda Banga, a Zimbabwean citizen, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Seattle to two federal felonies linked to his illegal border crossing from Canada into the United States. Observed twice in January 2024 by surveillance cameras in Hozomeen, Washington, Banga, 30, admitted to being an unlawful alien in possession of firearms and possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute. His sentencing is set for June 12 before U.S. District Judge Jamal N. Whitehead.

On January 3, 2024, U.S. Border Patrol captured an image of Banga crossing into the U.S. armed with a shotgun near Ross Lake. The individual was later identified as Banga, who was also seen tampering with a surveillance camera. Although Border Patrol and National Park Service personnel searched for him, he escaped into the woods, leaving behind a loaded shotgun traced to a dealer in Montreal. No fingerprints were initially found on the weapon.

On December 27, 2024, Border Patrol was alerted to suspicious activity near Ross Dam. A canoe containing a machete and food wrappers was found, and surveillance images from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police captured someone resembling Banga. When spotted walking along Highway 20, he lacked documentation for legal entry into the U.S. Upon arrest, Banga was found with scales, gelatin capsules, and approximately 1.4 pounds of MDMA.

Border Patrol agents linked Banga to prior incidents, including the tampering of surveillance cameras. Subsequently, fingerprint analysis confirmed Banga’s match to the shotgun discovered earlier. Banga acknowledged unlawfully entering the U.S. while armed. Penalties include up to 15 years for the firearm charge and up to 20 years for drug possession with intent to distribute, with the judge considering various factors for sentencing.

Tatenda Banga has admitted guilt to serious charges stemming from his illegal entry into the United States from Canada. His actions, which included carrying a firearm and illicit drugs, have multiple legal ramifications. Banga is scheduled for sentencing in June 2024, where Judge Whitehead will determine his fate based on legal guidelines and aggravating factors presented in court.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com