11 arrested, equipment seized in illegal gold mining crackdown

A joint security operation involving the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe National Army, and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services has led to the arrest of 11 suspects and the recovery of heavy mining equipment during a crackdown on illegal alluvial gold panning along the Mutare River.

Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the operation, saying it targeted growing illegal mining activities in the area.

The operation began in the Beauly area, where officers discovered and recovered 13 excavators, including XCMG and Caterpillar (CAT) machines, which had been concealed in nearby bushes. Authorities also seized mining tools such as water pumps, generators, gas blowers, shovels, and about 10 litres of diesel.

Police said the presence of such equipment indicated organised illegal mining operations rather than informal panning.

In a related sweep, eight suspects were arrested for criminal trespassing at Chikanga Farm. Those detained include individuals from Harare, Chiredzi and Mutare.

Police also raided an illegal tuckshop near Chikanga Bridge, where they confiscated large quantities of illicit alcoholic beverages.

The operation concluded at Champion Mine, where officers uncovered additional hidden equipment, including a wash plant and a generator. Three more suspects were arrested, including two security guards from Melta Security Company and a worker linked to Yungtech Private Limited.

All suspects are currently detained at ZRP Penhalonga as investigations continue.

Authorities say the crackdown on illegal mining will be intensified, amid growing concern over environmental damage and unregulated extraction activities along river systems in Manicaland Province.