Andrew
Tendai Chara
THREE-hundred illegal gold miners were arrested in Matabeleland Province alone this week as police embark on an operation to curb illegal mining and criminal activities in all gold-rich areas.
This follows a surge in illegal gold mining as miners take advantage of the lockdown to resume illegal mining operations.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the operation.
“We are having an on-going operation that is targeting illegal miners. We have so far made 300 arrests in Matabeleland South province and we are moving on to other areas. Those that are found on the wrong side of the law will be arrested,” Asst Comm Nyathi said.
He could, however, not name the targeted areas.
“We do not want to alert the illegal miners. We want to take them by surprise. Our teams are on the ground, flushing out illegal miners. People should engage in lawful activities, otherwise the law will take its course.”
Online Reporter