Vubachikwe Gold Mine faces threat of fresh invasion by youths

Vubachikwe Gold Mine, operated by private miner Duration Gold under the ML16 mining lease, is facing a renewed threat of invasion after more than 200 youths were allegedly mobilised to occupy sections of the concession, claiming protection from senior ruling party figures.

Zanu-PF Matabeleland South provincial youth chairperson and Insiza North Member of Parliament Moses Langa has been cited as the political figure allegedly backing the occupation.

The latest developments come as the Gwanda-based mine recently resumed operations following repeated disruptions caused by illegal mining incursions and a violent illegal strike in November 2022.

A visit to the mine on January 21 revealed large groups of youths inside the claims, some erecting tents while others openly loaded truckloads of ore. Police were observed conducting an afternoon raid, during which some mining equipment was confiscated, although the operation appeared to have limited impact.

Access to parts of the concession remained restricted, with reports that the youths were hostile and had previously overpowered mine security stationed at several shafts across the ML16 claim.

On January 22, a group of youths reportedly blocked the road leading to the mine's main plant, disrupting traffic and halting the delivery of relief food destined for flood-affected rural communities further down the route. The group reportedly dispersed into nearby mountains upon the arrival of police.

Investigations indicate that illegal mining activities within the ML16 lease have been ongoing for several weeks. Mine security earlier reported the presence of tipper trucks and a front-end loader operating in the Sweet Waters area.

Later that night, officers from ZRP Gwanda Rural intercepted a front-end loader and tipper trucks loading suspected gold ore. It is alleged that a prominent gold dealer was behind the removal of the ore, with the loaded trucks later seen entering his processing plant at White Farm.

Mine security reports allege that the same loader repeatedly returned to Sweet Waters over several days, removing what was described as "uncountable tons of gold ore."

Vubachikwe Mine spokesperson Robert Mukondiwa confirmed that a joint operation by mine security and police met resistance from illegal miners near the Central Shaft turn-off, even after the deployment of tear gas.

"A lot has been happening, and we have indeed faced challenges. We have seen increased numbers invading our claims. However, we are dealing with the matter and are pursuing multiple routes, including legal processes, to bring the culprits to book and restore order," Mukondiwa said.

NewZimbabwe.com was informed that on January 15, Langa allegedly addressed more than 200 youths at the Central Shaft turn-off, reportedly name-dropping the First Family and the ruling party. He was allegedly accompanied by Aldonia Gondo.

During the address, Langa is alleged to have assured the youths that the area had been taken over by Zanu-PF youth leadership, that no arrests would be made, and that police would not interfere. Shortly thereafter, compressors were reportedly brought onto the site, and trucks carrying ore were seen leaving the area without hindrance.

It is further alleged that a register was introduced to document illegal gold panners operating at the site, with plans made to seek formalisation of the takeover through engagements with the Ministry of Mines.

This publication observed a Zanu-PF-branded truck without number plates, emblazoned with the words "Central Committee Member," parked near the site as illegal mining activities continued nearby.

Gondo reportedly has an unresolved case before the Gwanda Magistrates Court for invading the mine and threatening senior mine security officer Max Ruza. Nearly a year later, the case has reportedly stalled due to repeated delays.

Illegal mining activity has reportedly spread toward the Gold Duck Shaft, with concerns raised over ground instability and the risk of collapses. Additional illegal operations were reported at Churu Farm and the Low-Density Village area, where blasting was allegedly heard.

On January 19, Langa and Gondo were allegedly part of a Zanu-PF youth delegation that travelled to Harare to meet Ministry of Mines officials, including Minister Polite Kambamura, in a bid to formalise the occupation of land within ML16.

However, Langa denied the allegations.

"All these allegations are baseless, and we did not meet the ministry regarding the issues you mentioned," he said.

He added that he was a law-abiding public officer who respects the rule of law.

"His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa always speaks about respect for the rule of law and property rights. As a provincial youth leader, what message would I be sending to the people of Matabeleland South and the nation at large?" Langa said.

Gwanda Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer Mguni confirmed that a police raid had taken place but referred further inquiries to national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, who was not reachable by the time of publication.

The latest invasion comes just a few kilometres from the venue of this year's Independence Day celebrations, which are set to be officiated by President Mnangagwa. Analysts say the alleged occupation of a mine operated by international investors undermines the government's "open for business" investment policy.

Vubachikwe Mine has experienced repeated invasions over the years, often involving individuals alleged to be politically connected. Previous incidents have resulted in ore looting, sporadic violence and significant damage to investor confidence, despite periodic police operations.

The standoff reflects broader challenges within Zimbabwe's mining sector, where allegations of lawlessness and political interference continue to threaten the stability of operations and investment security.