Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike
Senior Reporter
Chaos erupted at Sabi Gold Mine in Zvishavane on Sunday after a group of illegal artisanal miners allegedly attempted to invade the mine, resulting in a shooting incident and subsequent arrests of one of them.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest of 27-year-old Simon Muvadi following the confrontation, which occurred on 8 February 2026 at around 9 am at the mining site in Runde Constituency.
In a communique, Midlands Provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, said the suspect had been part of a group that unlawfully entered the mine premises with the intention of illegally prospecting for gold.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Silent Muvadi aged 27, in a shooting incident that occurred at Sabi Mining site in Zvishavane, Runde Constituency,” said Insp Mahoko.
He said the group was intercepted by mine security guards who sought to effect an arrest, but the situation quickly escalated.
“They were approached by security guards at the mine who intended to arrest them.
“It is alleged the group fled but Muvadi, instead, charged towards the security guards wielding a chisel in one of his hands,” said Insp Mahoko.
Faced with what police described as an imminent threat, one of the armed security guards opened fire.
“In view of the danger posed by the charge, one of the security guards who was armed then fired one shot and hit the victim on the thigh,” he said.
“The suspect was subdued at the scene, arrested and later handed over to ZRP Zvishavane.
“He sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh and was referred to Zvishavane Hospital for medical treatment,” he said.
Insp Mahoko said investigations were underway and more arrests were likely as police pursue the suspect’s accomplices.
“A docket is being compiled and the suspect and his accomplices will be charged for trespassing into Sabi Gold Mine,” he said.
Police warned members of the public against engaging in illegal mining activities and resisting law enforcement officers.
“We reiterate our call to the public not to resist lawful arrests. In the same vein, those with interests in mining should formally approach the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development,” said Insp Mahoko.
