Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
THE Zimbabwe School of Mines (ZSM) has issued a stark security warning to its staff and students, following a surge in illegal gold panning activities at the Bulawayo City Council pit near Cecil robots and opposite the New Parklands area.
According to an official notice, the area has become a hive of activity “day and night” with illegal gold panners frequenting the site. ZSM warns that the panners are not only digging for gold but are now posing a serious threat to public safety.
“There is an increase in illegal gold panning activities at the Bulawayo City Council Pit situated next to Cecil robots and opposite New Parklands area. Gold panners are frequenting that area and there is a hive of activity day and night,” reads the security alert.
ZSM further states that these individuals are becoming increasingly dangerous. “These panners are posing a threat to passersby both motoring as well as pedestrians. Cases of robberies and assaults happening at that area as well as in Killarney have been recorded by police.”
As a result, the school has urged both staff and students to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary movement in the affected zones. “ZSM Staff and Students are therefore encouraged to be cautious and avoid unnecessary movement around that area as well as the greater part of Killarney.”
The alert also advises motorists to be on high alert. “When driving, avoid picking up passengers or stopping around that area. Always lock your car doors and close windows.”
Additional safety measures include avoiding carrying large sums of money, refraining from boarding private vehicles and sticking to registered public service transport.
Victims or witnesses are urged to report incidents promptly. “Report all cases at the earliest opportune time to ZRP Khumalo on (0292) 260633 or (0292) 274491 or 0772 487 988 (Officer-In-Charge Khumalo), Killarney Neighborhood Watch Reaction Group 0774 183 499 and ZSM Security Department 0782 788 815 or 0773 022 018,” reads the notice.
