Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
AT least 21 suspects have so far been arrested in a nationwide anti-explosives crackdown launched following last month’s fatal Toyota Quantum explosion along Bulawayo–Esigodini Road, which killed all occupants onboard after suspected explosives detonated inside the vehicle.
The explosion, which shocked the nation, is suspected to have been caused by explosives concealed in a spare wheel that had been improperly secured underneath the vehicle’s spare wheel compartment.
In response, the police, working together with other State agencies, launched Operation Iron Fist in April 2026 to curb the illegal handling, transportation and storage of explosives across the country.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said authorities had intensified the operation as investigations and enforcement efforts continue.
“The police are working together with other Government agencies since April 2026,” he said.
Comm Nyathi said authorities were undertaking coordinated efforts to account for individuals, syndicates and institutions involved in the abuse and unlawful possession of explosives.
On May 8, 2026, police arrested five suspects in separate incidents linked to the unlawful possession of explosives.
Reason Sibanda (49), Zibusiso Sibanda (28) and Prosper Chaora (41) were arrested at Stella City F12 Mine in Kezi after allegedly being found in possession of explogels and a safety cord.
In another incident, Fungai Kanyasa (44) was arrested at Guyu Business Centre in Maramba, Murewa, for unlawful possession of emulates and igniting fuses.
Another suspect, Munyaradzi Mbizi (36), was arrested in Kwekwe on May 9, 2026 for unlawful possession of detonator fuses.
By last week, police had already arrested 16 individuals and entities during the nationwide operation.
Comm Nyathi identified those arrested and convicted by the courts as Walter Maranda of Heritage Mine, Patience Ncube of Imbesu Mine, Forbes Tarwirei of Murray Minerals Resources Mine, Dalabhule Sibanda of Happy Valley Mine Private Limited, Everservice Investment Private Limited, Rangariraayi Clive Mavhiya of Trustone Mine, Alawa Ncube of Jane A Orega Gold Mine, Energy Makoni of By Chance 73 Mine, Tafadzwa Gurutsa of By Chance 73 Mine, Precious Paradza of Runxin Mine, Tadius Tavaziva, Luis Fashitiny, Shepherd Gondo, Tapiwanashe Zhou, Caison Takawira and Regedzai Foroma.
