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Sindisiwe Sibanda, Sunday News Reporter
A COUNCILLOR from Inyathi in Matabeleland North is allegedly embroiled in a mining wrangle with a mining syndicate that has seen running battles resulting in the injury of a guard at the mine.
Clr Meluleki Sibanda of Ward 15 Ekopa at Inyathi, is being accused of forcibly grabbing New Horizon Mine. In an interview, a member of the mining syndicate, Mr Xanthi Ndabeni Tfwala alleged that Clr Sibanda took over the mine last month.
“Clr Sibanda visited the mine last month alleging that the mine had several issues that he needed clarity about. However, he made contentions that I have fired my workers, which I clarified that the only people who had been fired were those who had stolen from the mine,” said Mr Tfwala.
He added that Clr Sibanda visited the mine in the company of another councillor — identified as Mana Thebe from Ward 5.
“When Sibanda visited the mine for the second time he was coming to address a meeting and issues to do with evictions. However, in actual fact he had his own agenda to take over the mine, that is where he claimed the mine had several disputes. He asked me to produce the mine papers alleging that I had no right to be occupying the mine. However, some days later the mine was then run over by people who said they were working for Clr Sibanda,” said Mr Tfwala.
He said Clr Sibanda and his people beat up a security guard he had employed to guard machinery at the mine.
“We then reported the case to the police and since then nothing has been done which made me approach the Matabeleland North Provincial Mining Director for assistance,” said Mr Tfwala.
Contacted for a comment Clr Sibanda denied grabbing the mine.
“I remember visiting Horizon Mine accompanied by Thebe but it was something which happened long back, not now. However, I have nothing to do with the beating of the guard; in fact this guard does not even know me. All I have to say is that I will get them arrested if they drag my name in the mud,” said Clr Sibanda.
Clr Thebe said police must deal with the matter.
“We are very disappointed by the incident and the law enforcement agents should intervene. If ever there were misunderstandings it is always right to resolve them maturely and not resort to violence,” said Clr Thebe.
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