Illegal Gold Panner Shot and Arrested After Clash With Mine Security in Zvishavane

Shabanie Mine Milling Tower

Zvishavane — Police in the Midlands province have arrested a 27-year-old man following a shooting incident at Sabi Mine in Zvishavane, after a group allegedly invaded the mining site to illegally prospect for gold. The suspect, identified as Silent Muvadi, was shot in the thigh during a confrontation with mine security guards on Saturday, 8 February 2026, at around 0900 hours, according to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident, saying Muvadi was part of a group that unlawfully entered the mine in Runde Constituency. “Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Silent Muvadi, aged 27, in connection with a shooting incident that occurred at Sabi Mining site in Zvishavane,” Mahoko said. “The suspect was part of a group of people who allegedly invaded Sabi Mine to illegally prospect for gold.”

Confrontation With Armed Security

According to police, mine security personnel approached the group with the intention of effecting arrests. However, the situation escalated when members of the group attempted to flee the scene.

Inspector Mahoko said Muvadi allegedly charged towards the security guards while wielding a chisel, posing an immediate threat. “In view of the danger posed by the charge, one of the armed security guards fired a single shot, which struck the suspect on the thigh,” he said.

Muvadi was subsequently subdued, arrested, and handed over to officers from ZRP Zvishavane. He was taken to Zvishavane Hospital, where he received medical treatment for the gunshot wound.

Charges Pending as Police Warn Against Illegal Mining

Police confirmed that a docket is currently being compiled, and that Muvadi, along with other suspects who escaped, will face charges related to trespassing and illegal mining activities at Sabi Gold Mine.

Inspector Mahoko reiterated police warnings against resisting lawful arrest and engaging in illegal mining operations. “We reiterate our call to members of the public not to resist lawful arrests,” he said. “In the same vein, those with interests in mining should formally approach the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to obtain the necessary authorisation.”

Ongoing Illegal Mining Concerns

The incident highlights ongoing challenges linked to illegal gold panning, which has remained a persistent issue across Zimbabwe’s mining regions. Authorities say confrontations between artisanal miners and private security have increased as mining firms tighten security around their concessions. Police say investigations are continuing as they pursue other members of the group who fled the scene.

Zvishavane shooting