Eight jailed for illegal gold mining in Penhalonga

Online Reporter

THE Mutare Magistrates’ Court has handed down two-year prison sentences to eight individuals convicted of illegal gold prospecting in Penhalonga.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe said the group was arrested for operating without a license at plot 05 Premier Central Penhalonga, where they were found in possession of mining tools and suspected gold ore.

The convicted individuals are Benny (35), Culbert (32), Simbarashe (24), Wonderful (30), Raymond (22), Cuthbert Nyakunu (31), Moreblessing Kanzou (20), and Robert Mapfunde (30). They were caught with a range of mining equipment, including a windlass, machete, shovel, wheelbarrow, and 18 sacks of suspected gold ore, each weighing 50kg.

“The court heard that the group was illegally prospecting for gold at the site, which is a violation of Zimbabwe’s mining laws. The prosecution emphasized the need to deter illegal mining activities, which not only undermine the country’s economy but also pose environmental and safety risks.

“In delivering the sentence, the magistrate highlighted the seriousness of the offense and the need to uphold the rule of law in the mining sector. “Illegal mining activities deprive the state of revenue and create unsafe and unregulated working conditions. This sentence serves as a warning to others who may be engaging in similar activities,” read the statement.