Anger grows over Inyathi shootings

Frustration is mounting among families of victims allegedly shot by security guards at Duration Gold Limited 5 (DGL5) Mine in Bubi, Matabeleland North, amid delays in the judicial process and fears that the accused are being shielded from prosecution.

Relatives and community members gathered at Inyathi Magistrates' Court on Monday, where DGL5 shareholder Francesco Marconati was scheduled for routine remand on charges related to contraventions of the Firearms Act and assault. The matter was adjourned to January 21. Marconati had previously been arrested after one of his security guards allegedly shot at villagers, killing 31-year-old Thabo Ngwenya on November 30, 2025.

Ngwenya's mother, Sibusisiwe Moyo, described her son as the family breadwinner who left behind a wife, young children, and a grandmother he cared for. She expressed anguish over Marconati's absence during the burial and the slow progress of the court case.

Other residents alleged that the shootings by DGL5 security personnel have become commonplace, creating a perception that the guards act with impunity. Nqobizitha Moyo, 20, told the media he lost his right eye after being allegedly shot by a guard linked to Marconati's operations in January 2025 and claimed that no justice had been delivered.

Community leader Pardon Mangena accused the police of frustrating their attempts to attend court peacefully, suggesting that proximity between law enforcement and DGL5 mine staff may be influencing the handling of cases.

Marconati has denied owning an unlicensed firearm, insisting it belonged to DGL5 shareholders. However, police investigations reportedly revealed the weapons were registered in his name. He also faces unresolved charges related to firing shots at a rival miner's driver in 2021.

Authorities had not commented on the latest developments at the time of reporting. Families and villagers continue to demand accountability, expressing concerns over safety, justice, and the protection of their communities.