Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
Ward 41 Councillor Kudzai Kadzombe says investigations are underway following suspected illegal mining activities at a residential property in Marlborough, where several people have been arrested.
Speaking in an interview, Cllr Kadzombe said council officials recently visited a property at No. 4 Wollington Close after reports of mining on the premises.
She said the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) is compiling a report that will be submitted to the Permanent Secretary.
“When we visited the site, we were informed that eight people had been arrested. Unfortunately, those arrested were women and children, not the individuals who were allegedly carrying out the mining. They are due to appear in court today,” she said.
Cllr Kadzombe also said one of the suspects alleged that a clay pot believed to have been used for ritual purposes had been broken at the site, although the claim has not been independently verified.
She said the property belongs to a woman who is currently based in Borrowdale and was reportedly unaware of the extent of the damage caused by the alleged mining activities.
According to Cllr Kadzombe, officials found extensive damage to the property, including broken windows and roofing, as well as about nine pits dug within the premises.
“They have stopped mining, and I believe those who were carrying out the mining have fled because they cannot be located,” she said.
