Gold miners in Mashonaland East Province are accusing the police of protecting illegal miners who are disrupting their operations.
A manager at Hun Sen Mine, a significant Chinese-owned venture in the Makaha area of Mutoko, reported that these unauthorized miners, known as makorokoza, are increasingly invading their claims.
The manager, who wished to remain anonymous, explained that illegal mining activities not only lack proper authorization but also pose serious environmental risks due to unsustainable practices. He stated that the mine’s management had contacted local police, including District Superintendent Moyo and Inspector Katigu of the Police Internal Security and Intelligence (PISI), to address the illegal mining issue.
In early September, the manager reported the illegal miners’ presence and requested police intervention, including their arrest and the confiscation of equipment.
ALSO READ: CCC MP Happymore Chidziva Arrested For Rape
He alleged that the police agreed to conduct an operation but required funding for fuel and meals, requesting a budget of $2,700. The payment was made three weeks ago, but despite assurances that the operation would occur within three days, no action has been taken.
The mine’s management has followed up multiple times, but the operation has continually been postponed. Alarmingly, the manager noted that police officers have been seen meeting with the illegal miners, leading to concerns that law enforcement may be tipping them off about planned operations.
He raised serious questions about the legality of police officers demanding payment for their duties and warned criminals about impending actions. The ongoing situation has left the miners questioning the effectiveness of the police under these circumstances.
Efforts to get a response from local police regarding the accusations of protecting illegal miners and soliciting payments from miners are still in progress.
