CRACKDOWN: Police Arrest Three for Illegal Possession of Explosives and Unsanctioned Mining

HARARE — In a coordinated effort to enforce mining regulations and public safety, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has apprehended three individuals in separate incidents involving the illegal possession of explosives and unauthorized mining operations across the country. The arrests underscore a tightening of enforcement regarding the Explosives Act (Chapter 10:08) and the strict regulations governing the storage and handling of dangerous materials.

Police investigations into the mismanagement of mining explosives have yielded multiple arrests:

• Matopo/Esigodini: On April 21, 2026, detectives from the CID Minerals Flora and Fauna Unit (MFFU) raided Malungwane D3 Mine. They arrested Dingani Ncube (42) after discovering 33 Emex cartridge explosives, a roll of detonating lighting cord, and 06 capped fuses inside his cabin without a valid permit.

• Silobela: In a related operation, police arrested Honest Gumbo (43) at Turtel 53 Mine for failing to comply with the terms of his Explosive Storage Licence (SI 72/89). Authorities recovered a sealed box of explosives and 41 loose fractures that were not securely stored.

In a separate incident on April 22, 2026, police conducted a raid at Mount Featherstone, Donkerhoek Farm, in the Chikomba district, following reports of illegal mining. During the operation, officers intercepted Tinashe Nhete (51), a resident of Belgravia, Harare. Nhete had excavated a pit approximately 1.5 meters wide and 3 meters deep. Upon failing to produce any legal mining documentation, he was arrested. Police recovered a comprehensive set of mining tools, including:

• A mining detector and an Astra Korea generator.

• A chisel drill, a six-pound hammer, a short-handled pick, and a shovel.

• 4 explosive fuses, a hand-held chisel, and a tool box.

The ZRP has issued a strong reminder to the public regarding the legal requirements for handling explosives. Any activities involving the manufacturing, acquiring, storing, or transporting of explosives must strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.

"Members of the public are reminded that violating the provisions of the Explosives Act carries a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment or a fine (level seven) or both," stated Detective Assistant Inspector Muriro M. of the CID Headquarters Press and Public Relations office.

Zimbabwe police explosives arrests 2026