Police order illegal miners to vacate Mazowe Mine by July 13

ZIMSPHERE 

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has mandated all illegal miners to vacate Mazowe Mine by July 13, 2024. This directive follows an eviction notice from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.

In a statement on Monday, July 8, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi emphasized that any illegal miners who fail to comply will face legal consequences. 

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that the Government, through the Ministry Of Mines And Mining Development, recently issued an eviction notice and order for all illegal occupiers of mining sites, destruction of land and vegetation activities, and those engaged in criminal acts to vacate Mazowe Mine Lease 35, covering areas near ZRP Mazowe up to Concession, with effect from July 6, 2024, to July 13, 2024,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

Nyathi further warned, “The Zimbabwe Republic Police therefore takes the opportunity to warn illegal occupants of mining sites and those perpetuating criminal activities to take heed of the notice and vacate or leave the indicated areas by the given period. 

“Police will ensure the law takes its course on anyone who will defy the Government’s directive or commits criminal activity under the guise of mining syndicates or groups. The public is implored to cooperate with police officers as they move in to maintain law and order.”

This directive is a response to reports that Metallon Corporation, the parent company of Mazowe Mine, has struggled to resume organized mining operations due to the presence of illegal miners. 

Mazowe Mine was initially closed in September 2018 because of operational challenges, including capital constraints, and was placed under administration along with its sister mine, Shamva Mine.

In January, Mazowe Mine announced plans to resume underground shaft operations, which had been suspended in 2019 following an influx of artisanal miners.