Sidumisile Mabena
B-Metro Reporter
TWO illegal gold miners were each slapped with two years behind bars after being caught red handed digging for gold without a licence in Zvishavane.
The Zvishavane Magistrates Court convicted Prince Muzanenhamo (30) and Stenford Hungwe (25) after the State proved that the pair were illegally prospecting for gold in a bushy area near Mabhula Business Centre.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), police received a tip off on 22 January 2026 about suspicious mining activity in the area.
Officers swiftly moved in and found the duo actively extracting gold using a chisel and two shovels, tools that later became key exhibits in court.
When questioned by police, the two men failed to produce a valid prospecting licence or permit, a legal requirement under Zimbabwean mining laws. They were immediately arrested, and the tools used in the illegal operation were seized.
Prosecutors told the court that illegal mining is a serious offence that not only violates national laws but also causes severe environmental degradation, including land destruction and damage to flora and fauna.
Authorities further stressed that such activities result in massive loss of State revenue, as minerals are stolen outside regulated channels meant to benefit the nation.
In passing sentence, the court sent a clear warning that illegal mining will not be treated lightly as the Government intensifies efforts to protect natural resources and restore order in mining communities.
The NPAZ said law enforcement agencies will continue clamping down on illegal mining syndicates, especially those operating in secluded bush areas where environmental damage often goes unchecked.
Members of the public have been urged to report illegal mining activities to the police as Zimbabwe pushes a zero tolerance stance against environmental crimes.
Online Reporter