Allegations of machete gang political protection surface amid robbery investigation

Khahliso Ncube

IN the aftermath of the daring machete gang’s US$200 000 raid on a mining operation in Esigodini, new developments have emerged, raising concerns over potential political involvement in the criminal activities. Reliable sources within police have hinted at the possibility of the gang receiving protection from a top-ranking corrupt politician, whose identity remains undisclosed.

Eyewitnesses and local informants have allegedly provided investigators with information suggesting a collusion between the gang and the unnamed politician. These revelations have shed light on the complexities surrounding the escalating crime wave, drawing attention to the illicit nexus that may exist between criminal elements and powerful figures.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi refused to provide details on the investigations and the alleged involvement of the unnamed senior politician.

“The duty of the police is to investigate crime and that is what we are doing. When we have information to share, we will share it. All I can say at the moment is that investigations are progressing well,” he said.

The alleged protection from a corrupt politician has further complicated the search for the perpetrators, as authorities face increased challenges in pursuing justice and recovering the stolen gold.

The local mining community, already grappling with security concerns, now faces additional uncertainties as they seek answers and safeguards against such criminal activities. Calls for immediate action to dismantle the machete gangs and eliminate the pervasive corruption have resonated across the nation.

As the investigation continues, the police are under immense pressure to uncover the truth behind the gang’s protection and bring all involved parties to justice. The incident has highlighted the urgency of combating corruption at all levels and fortifying law enforcement efforts against organised criminal networks.

The Government has been called upon to address the machete gang crisis which is now widespread nationwide, restore public trust, and strengthen measures to safeguard the nation’s valuable natural resources. It responded by making the police to launch a dragnet operation code-named “Chikorokoza Ngachipere/ Isitsheketsha Kasiphele & No to Machete Gangs”.