Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
POLICE have arrested two Chinese businessmen in connection with the smuggling of 27 tonnes of Silica (Quart) ore out of the country through Beitbridge Border Post.
The mineral had been moved from Rockseed Mine, Kotwa in Mutoko in Mashonaland East province.
It is understood that Silica (silicon dioxide) and its most common crystalline form, quartz, are among the most versatile and widely used natural materials, serving as essential components in industries ranging from construction to high-tech electronics.
In addition, Silica is used in a variety of ceramics and specialty glasses, and is the raw material for the manufacture of silicon compounds such as silicones, silanes, and high-purity silicon metal for semiconductors.
Can Wu (43) and Yuan Chang (52) were arrested on Monday following thorough investigations linking them to a case committed on January 31 this year.
The duo, who are being represented by Mr Jabulani Mzinyathi of Garikayi and Company legal practitioners, are expected to appear in court on Wednesday, charged with smuggling.
According to State papers, the two accused persons, along with one Tarisai Matsveru, who is still at large, connived to smuggle 27 tonnes of silica ore out of the country through Beitbridge Border Post on 31 January.
They then hired a commercial truck driven by Aaron Siyabonga Dhlamini to carry the contraband from Rockseed Mine in Mutoko to Beitbridge.
The truck was intercepted as it was about to leave the export side at the Beitbridge freight terminal on February 3 after customs officials noticed that there were no export documents.
The matter was referred to the police and the truck and the ore were seized pending further investigations, which led to the arrest of Wu and Chang on February 16.
Peter Tanyanyiwa