Tendai Muererwa
Mutare – A joint security operation resulted in the arrest of 11 suspects and the recovery of heavy mining equipment during a crackdown on illegal alluvial gold panning along the Mutare River.
Acting Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, said the operation involved officers from the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS), targeting illegal mining activities that have been increasing in the area.
The sweep began in the Beauly area, where authorities recovered 13 excavators — including XCMG and CAT brands — which had been hidden in nearby bushes. Various mining tools were also seized, among them water pumps, generators, gas blowers, shovels, and about 10 litres of diesel, indicating organised operations.
In a separate incident, eight suspects were arrested for criminal trespassing at Chikanga Farm. Those detained include Nobert Simon (34) from Kambuzuma, Michael Samuel (25) of Chief Nyajena in Chiredzi, and Beaven Kararira (18) of Mutokotyo Village under Chief Rusambo.
Police also raided an illegal tuckshop operating near Chikanga Bridge, where they confiscated large quantities of illicit alcoholic drinks.
The operation wrapped up at Champion Mine, where officers uncovered more hidden equipment, including a wash plant and a generator. Three more suspects two security guards from Melta Security Company and a general worker linked to Yungtech Private Limited were arrested.
All suspects are being held at ZRP Penhalonga as investigations continue, with authorities vowing to intensify efforts against illegal mining.
