Three prominent Zimbabweans, including two ruling party officials, have been given long jail sentences, after being convicted of spying for South Africa.
A diplomat, a senior Zanu-PF official and a banker have begun terms of between five and six years.
They have denied the charges and their lawyers say they will appeal.
Neighbouring South Africa has a considerable influence on Zimbabwe. Critics of President Robert Mugabe want it to put more pressure on him.
South Africa has not commented on the reported arrest of one if its intelligence agents in Zimbabwe, who was allegedly running the spy ring.
'Morally reprehensible'
Flamboyant businessman and Zanu-PF MP Philip Chiyangwa is alleged to be the ringleader.
Another Zanu-PF official is currently on trial in Harare, while the sixth alleged spy, a Zimbabwean diplomat based in Switzerland, escaped while being transferred on his way to Harare.
Strict reporting restrictions have been imposed on the case but state prosecutor Morgen Nemadire told reporters they had committed "morally reprehensible" offences.
Zimbabwe's ambassador-designate to Mozambique, Godfrey Dzvairo, was sentenced to an effective six years in prison while Itai Marchi, Zanu-PF party's director for external affairs, and former banker Tendai Matambanadzo each got five years.
In the run-up to 31 March parliamentary elections, Zanu-PF has also been deeply split as rival factions jockey to be in prime position to succeed Mr Mugabe, who has said he will not stand for re-election in 2008.
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