Online Reporter
Christopher Nyika [email protected]
POLICE in Nkayi District, Matabeleland North Province, have arrested more than 60 suspects during an ongoing operation targeting illegal mining activities in the Inyathi area, in a move authorities say is aimed at restoring order in communities affected by gold panning activities.
The operation, code-named “Isitsheketsha Kasiphele/Chikorokoza Ngachipere,” was launched on May 5, 2026, following a rise in cases linked to illegal mining, including violent crimes, environmental degradation and the mushrooming of squatter camps.
According to ZRP Matabeleland North provincial spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda, police officers used drone technology and intelligence gathering to track and apprehend suspects who had been evading law enforcement agents.
“Police in Nkayi district launched the operation to clamp down on illegal mining activities that have resulted in land degradation and the setting up of squatter camps in the Inyathi area. The illegal miners had been playing hide and seek with police officers, however, our operatives managed to outwit them through aerial surveillance using drone technology and intelligence-led investigations,” said Inspector Banda.
The suspects were arrested for various offences including illegal mining, theft of gold ore, theft of gold sands, unlawful entry into premises and assault.
Police also recovered dangerous weapons such as machetes and knobkerries during the operation. Authorities say the weapons are commonly used during disputes among illegal miners and at illegal beer-drinking spots operating around mining sites.
Inspector Banda said police have previously recorded several violent incidents linked to illegal mining activities in the district, including murder and assault cases arising from disputes over gold claims, theft of mining equipment and misunderstandings during drinking sprees at illegal beer outlets.
“Most of these offenders operate illegal beer outlets and have a tendency to engage in violent crimes such as murder during drinking sprees,” he said.
In recent months, police in Matabeleland North have handled cases in which illegal miners attacked each other with machetes, knobkerries and other weapons over gold-rich sites and proceeds from gold sales. Some victims sustained serious injuries, while other incidents turned fatal.
Authorities say illegal mining activities have also contributed to land degradation, unsafe living conditions in squatter camps and increased criminal activities in surrounding communities.
All the accused persons have since appeared before the Inyathi Magistrates Court.
Police have urged members of the public to desist from illegal mining activities and related criminal conduct such as drug and substance abuse. Members of the public were also warned against carrying dangerous weapons such as axes, machetes and knobkerries, particularly at beer outlets and public gathering places.
Inspector Banda said police will continue conducting operations in mining areas across the province in an effort to maintain law and order.
