A joint investigation by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has uncovered an alleged lithium smuggling syndicate involving local and foreign nationals, with one suspect already appearing in court. Tsitsi Manyumwa, a director of Kunshan Mineral Consultancy (Private) Limited, has been arrested and charged in connection with the alleged illegal export of lithium ore to China. She recently appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Mutare, who granted her US$1,000 bail and remanded the matter to 23 July 2026. According to ZACC, Manyumwa is facing charges under Section 189 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act as well as the Base Minerals Export Control (Unbeneficiated Base Mineral Ores) Order, 2023. Investigators allege that Manyumwa acted in concert with clearing agent Simbarashe Shaza and foreign national Li Dewen, who are both still at large, to illegally export unbeneficiated lithium ore through Forbes Border Post destined for China. According to investigators, the alleged syndicate used six haulage trucks between 15 and 17 May 2026 to collect shipping containers from MSC before transporting lithium ore from CEVAFRICA Logistics in Harare. The cargo was reportedly moved towards Forbes Border Post on 20 May 2026. The alleged operation began to unravel when ZIMRA officials intercepted two trucks after their drivers declared they were transporting empty containers. Following questioning, the drivers allegedly admitted they were carrying lithium ore, leading to the seizure of both trucks. Investigators further recovered a Mozambican transit declaration indicating that one of the consignments was destined for Beira Port in Mozambique. Following the interceptions, four of the six trucks allegedly returned to Harare. Investigations later led to the recovery of two shipping containers on 18 June 2026, while another truck was intercepted in Goromonzi and impounded at a BAK storage facility. ZACC alleges that on 28 May 2026, one container was transferred onto another haulage truck in Msasa before continuing its journey using fraudulent export documentation allegedly supplied by Shaza. Authorities allege the syndicate cloned an expired export permit issued to Bikita Minerals and ZimAlloys Chrome for petalite concentrate to facilitate the illegal export of lithium ore. Investigators say the group intended to export approximately 204 tonnes of lithium ore, although only 34 tonnes are believed to have left Zimbabwe before the operation was disrupted. The seized lithium ore has an estimated value of US$100,000, according to investigators. The State is represented by prosecutor Takudzwa Jambaya, while investigations are continuing as authorities pursue the remaining suspects. Zimbabwe has tightened controls over the export of unprocessed lithium in recent years as part of efforts to promote local mineral beneficiation and maximise value from the country's rapidly growing lithium sector. Zimbabwe lithium smuggling syndicate

A self-styled traditional healer has been arrested in Mutare after he was allegedly found carrying two live snakes without the permits required under Zimbabwe's wildlife laws. Gift Kanodaweta (19), who is also known as James Malunga and reportedly operates under the name Sekuru Kamutungunde, was arrested in Chikanga late last month after allegedly being found in possession of a puff adder and a cobra. Police say the reptiles have since been confiscated and handed over to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said Kanodaweta was brought to ZRP Chikanga Police Station by a member of the Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (ZINATHA), who alleged that he was practising as a traditional healer without being registered with the association. According to police, the accused is facing allegations of possessing protected wildlife without a permit, contrary to Section 59(1)(b) of the Parks and Wildlife Act [Chapter 20:14]. "On June 26, at around 10am in Chikanga, Mutare, Gift Kanodaweta, also known as James Malunga, aged 19, of Kadzinga Village under Chief Nyajina in Murehwa, who practises as a traditional healer under the name Sekuru Kamutungunde, was found in possession of a puff adder and a cobra without a Parks and Wildlife permit," said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka. Police said the complainant, identified as Paradzayi Clever Maendayi, reported that Kanodaweta was carrying the snakes in a satchel and allegedly claimed to use them during traditional rituals. During questioning, Kanodaweta allegedly told investigators that although he traces his roots to Malawi, he was born and raised in Murehwa and had been practising traditional healing from a young age. He further claimed that he travelled to Mozambique in 2024 for spiritual fortification, where another traditional healer allegedly gave him two eggs that later hatched into the snakes recovered by police. According to the police, Kanodaweta said he specialises in conducting rituals for clients involved in the mining sector, claiming the ceremonies are intended to help miners prosper financially. Following the arrest, ZimParks officials examined the reptiles and identified them as a puff adder and a cobra before taking custody of the animals. The suspect was subsequently handed over to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit for further investigations. Police said investigations into the matter are continuing. Under Zimbabwe's Parks and Wildlife Act, the possession, transport or keeping of protected wildlife species without the appropriate permits is a criminal offence, with enforcement falling under the authority of ZimParks. Mutare traditional healer arrested with snakes

Traditional healers have called on the National AIDS Council (NAC) to provide them with HIV rapid test kits, arguing that the move would improve early detection of HIV and strengthen referrals to health facilities. The request was made during the 2026 National AIDS Council and Traditional Medical Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (TMPCZ) National Sensitisation Workshop held in Macheke last week. The three-day workshop brought together traditional medical practitioners from all 10 provinces to discuss collaboration in the prevention and management of HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes and hypertension, as part of Zimbabwe's broader public health strategy. Traditional healers said they are often the first point of contact for patients seeking treatment, particularly in rural communities, but face difficulties persuading some people to seek HIV testing and medical care. Bridget Simango, a traditional healer from Gweru, said some patients presenting symptoms associated with HIV continue to believe they have been bewitched and are reluctant to visit health facilities for testing. "We use traditional medicine to assist people, but we sometimes encounter patients who present with symptoms associated with HIV while insisting they have been bewitched," Simango said. "We are requesting that NAC provide us with HIV testing kits so that patients can be tested immediately where appropriate. "Many patients do not act on verbal advice alone. If we are able to identify possible cases early, we can encourage and refer them to hospitals for further management." She said traditional healers could complement Zimbabwe's healthcare system by referring patients for diagnosis and treatment rather than attempting to manage conditions beyond their scope. Another traditional healer, Betty Gwatidzo of Rusape, urged practitioners to recognise the limits of traditional medicine and prioritise timely referrals to hospitals. "No one has the capacity to treat every illness. When a condition falls outside your expertise, the responsible thing is to refer the patient to a health facility," she said. "We hope NAC and the Government will consider our request because early testing and referral can help save lives." Gwatidzo also cautioned against delayed referrals, saying some patients lose valuable treatment time while seeking alternative remedies. Emmanuel Chadira, popularly known as Sekuru Shumba from Gokwe, said traditional healers should work alongside Zimbabwe's formal healthcare system rather than in competition with it. "There are diseases, including HIV, that require medical treatment. Our role is complementary, and patients should be encouraged to attend clinics and hospitals for appropriate care," he said. He also criticised reports of some traditional healers allegedly keeping seriously ill patients under their care instead of referring them to health facilities. "We discourage any practitioner from keeping critically ill patients when they require hospital treatment. Referrals should be made whenever a condition is beyond one's capacity." Zimbabwe has increasingly promoted collaboration between conventional health services and traditional medical practitioners as part of efforts to improve healthcare access, particularly in underserved communities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), early HIV testing and prompt initiation of antiretroviral therapy remain among the most effective strategies for reducing HIV-related illness, preventing transmission and improving long-term health outcomes. Traditional healers HIV testing kits Zimbabwe

Bishop of the Society of Saint Pius X, Alfonso de Galarreta, consecrating four new bishops in Econe without permission from the Vatican. EPA/Cyril Zingaro By Southerton Business Times | Analysis The Vatican has declared that bishops involved in the unauthorised consecration of four new bishops for the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) have incurred automatic excommunication, marking the latest chapter in a decades-long dispute between the Holy See and the traditionalist Catholic group. In a statement issued on 2 July, the Holy See said the consecrations, which took place a day earlier in Écône, Switzerland, constituted "an act of a schismatic nature." Under Canon Law, bishops who consecrate other bishops without a papal mandate, and those who receive episcopal consecration without authorisation from the Pope, incur latae sententiae (automatic) excommunication. The Vatican said the four newly consecrated bishops and the bishops who performed the consecrations had placed themselves outside full communion with the Catholic Church. It also warned that clergy and faithful who formally adhere to the schismatic act risk the canonical consequences provided for under Church law. The SSPX was founded in 1970 by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, who opposed many of the reforms introduced following the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965), commonly known as Vatican II. Convened by Pope John XXIII and concluded under Pope Paul VI, Vatican II sought to renew the Catholic Church's engagement with the modern world while maintaining its core doctrines. Among its most visible reforms was permitting the celebration of Mass in local languages instead of exclusively in Latin, alongside changes to liturgy, ecumenical relations and the Church's pastoral approach. Lefebvre argued that several post-conciliar reforms represented a departure from longstanding Catholic tradition. His movement continued to celebrate the pre-Vatican II Latin Mass and rejected aspects of the Council's teachings. The Vatican withdrew official recognition of the SSPX in 1975, and tensions escalated the following year when Archbishop Lefebvre was suspended from exercising priestly ministry after ordaining priests against Vatican instructions. The dispute reached a turning point in 1988, when Lefebvre consecrated four bishops in Écône without the approval of Pope John Paul II. The Vatican ruled that the consecrations constituted a schismatic act, and Lefebvre, together with the newly consecrated bishops, incurred automatic excommunication under Canon Law. At the same time, John Paul II acknowledged many Catholics' attachment to the traditional Latin liturgy and established structures to assist those wishing to remain in full communion with Rome while preserving older liturgical practices. Pope Leo XIV: trying to hold together a diverse and often bitterly divided church. EPA/Riccardo Antimiani Relations improved during the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI. In 2007, Benedict expanded permission for the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass under specified conditions through Summorum Pontificum. Two years later, he lifted the excommunications imposed on the four surviving bishops consecrated in 1988 as a gesture intended to encourage dialogue. However, the Vatican made clear that the SSPX still lacked canonical status within the Catholic Church because unresolved doctrinal differences remained. Formal doctrinal discussions followed but did not result in full reconciliation. During the pontificate of Pope Francis, dialogue continued. Francis also granted SSPX priests limited faculties to validly hear confessions and witness certain marriages under specified conditions, while maintaining that the society remained in an irregular canonical situation and outside full ecclesial communion. Before the July 2026 ceremony, Pope Leo XIV wrote to SSPX Superior General Father Davide Pagliarani, urging the society not to proceed with the consecration of additional bishops. According to the Vatican, the Pope warned that proceeding without papal approval would constitute a schismatic act and further damage efforts toward reconciliation. Despite the appeal, the consecrations went ahead at Écône on 1 July. The Vatican subsequently confirmed that those directly involved had incurred automatic excommunication under canon law because of their participation in the unauthorised episcopal consecrations. The latest development does not amount to the excommunication of every member of the SSPX. Instead, it applies directly to those who participated in the unauthorised episcopal consecrations and reflects the Catholic Church's long-standing position that bishops may not be consecrated without papal approval. The SSPX estimates it serves approximately 600,000 faithful worldwide, operating seminaries, schools and chapels across several countries. Although relatively small compared with the Catholic Church's global membership of around 1.4 billion, the society continues to represent one of the most significant traditionalist movements outside full communion with Rome. The latest rupture underscores that divisions over the interpretation and implementation of Vatican II remain unresolved more than six decades after the Council concluded, even as successive popes have sought dialogue alongside the enforcement of canon law. SSPX excommunication

Young people at a Parliamentary Youth Caucus dialogue called for improved access to reproductive healthcare, menstrual hygiene products and emergency contraceptives. MASVINGO – Zimbabwean youths have called for expanded access to sexual and reproductive health services, including safe abortion services, free sanitary pads, emergency contraceptives and condoms, arguing that high costs and limited access contribute to unsafe abortions, teenage pregnancies and cases of baby abandonment. The calls were made during a Parliamentary Youth Caucus dialogue held at Mucheke Hall under the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC-PF) Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights, HIV and AIDS and Governance Project. The meeting brought together students, youth leaders, civil society organisations, local authorities and legislators to discuss challenges affecting adolescents and young people. Speaking during the dialogue, Acknowledge Mawere from Bikita said women and girls seeking abortions should not be criminalised, arguing that restrictive laws can drive some people towards unsafe procedures or baby abandonment. He referred to a recently reported case in Chikuku, Bikita District, where a newborn baby was allegedly abandoned, saying such incidents highlighted the need for broader discussions on reproductive health policy. "Just recently, there was a case in Chikuku, Bikita, where a baby was found abandoned in a toilet. These are the realities we are facing," Mawere said. "People often resort to unsafe abortions because they don't have access to these services. Others carry unwanted pregnancies to term and end up abandoning babies out of fear." Another participant, Fadzai Makuwere, said discussions around abortion should acknowledge the realities facing many young people. "Unwanted pregnancies resulting from mistakes should be terminated safely if the individual chooses to do so," she said. "We often tell young people to abstain from sex, but the reality is that abstinence is not always effective." Participants also appealed for wider access to menstrual hygiene products, condoms and emergency contraceptives, particularly for young people in rural and low-income communities. Bridget Marima urged authorities to expand the distribution of free sanitary pads, saying many girls continue to miss school because they cannot afford menstrual hygiene products. Several participants also called for emergency contraceptive pills, commonly known as the morning-after pill, to be made more accessible. A participant from Mucheke Vocational Centre said the cost of emergency contraceptives remained beyond the reach of many young people. "We need morning-after pills to be free in schools just like condoms. We only have access to condoms, but what about morning-after pills?" the participant said. "We don't have that US$3 to buy morning-after pills, which may end up causing unwanted pregnancies." Some youths also proposed that condoms be distributed more widely in communities, including at public transport ranks and other public spaces, rather than being available mainly at schools, health facilities and selected outlets. Glen View South MP Tsitsi Tawomhera (ZANU PF), who participated in the dialogue, agreed that government should strengthen access to sanitary pads. She, however, distinguished between menstrual hygiene products and contraceptives. According to Tawomhera, menstruation is a natural biological process, while decisions relating to sexual activity involve personal choice, meaning the two should not necessarily be treated as identical public policy issues. The dialogue forms part of ongoing regional efforts to improve access to sexual and reproductive health information and services for young people across Southern Africa. In Zimbabwe, abortion remains largely restricted under the Termination of Pregnancy Act, which permits the procedure only under specific legal circumstances, including where the pregnancy endangers the woman's life, involves severe foetal impairment or results from offences such as rape, incest or unlawful intercourse, subject to the requirements of the law. Participants at the meeting said continued dialogue between policymakers, healthcare providers and young people is essential to address teenage pregnancies, maternal health and access to reproductive healthcare. Zimbabwe sexual and reproductive health

Nelson Chamisa deleted an X post that social media users linked to Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga's recent biblical references amid debate over Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. HARARE – Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has deleted a post on X that appeared to reference Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga's recent use of biblical imagery in speeches delivered amid growing debate over the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3). The Bill, which was passed by Parliament last week, is awaiting President Emmerson Mnangagwa's assent before it can become law. CAB3 has become one of Zimbabwe's most contentious constitutional reform proposals, attracting criticism from opposition parties, churches, legal experts and civil society organisations. Opponents argue that the amendments could reshape key constitutional provisions, including extending President Mnangagwa's term from 2028 to 2030 and changing aspects of the country's electoral framework. A broad alliance of church leaders, opposition politicians and civic organisations has since formed Sungano yeVanhu/Ubumbano loMphakathi (The People's Coalition) to campaign against the Bill. Among those associated with the coalition are Reverend Kupukwashe Mtata, Lovemore Madhuku, Tendai Biti, Reuben Zulu, David Coltart and Jameson Timba. Chamisa is not part of the coalition, a position that has drawn criticism from some opposition supporters who believe he should play a more active role in coordinated efforts against the proposed constitutional amendments. Although he has repeatedly criticised CAB3 on social media, Chamisa has not joined the coalition's legal and political campaign. He has also dismissed allegations that he is cooperating with ZANU-PF. On Friday, Chamisa posted the message: "Razaro ari kupiko? Ko Hezekia? Hezekia akazoita sei zviya? #Godisinit." The post was later deleted without explanation. While Chamisa did not identify anyone in the message, some social media users interpreted it as a reference to Vice-President Chiwenga's recent speeches, in which he invoked the biblical figures Lazarus and King Hezekiah. Chiwenga has used those biblical references during public addresses in recent weeks. Although he did not explicitly connect them to CAB3, the speeches have generated widespread political commentary and competing interpretations regarding their intended meaning. Political analyst Rashweat Mukundu said he viewed Chamisa's now-deleted post as political satire rather than a substantive political intervention. "I think this is political banter by Chamisa mocking the chaos and divisions in Zanu-PF over CAB3," Mukundu said. "This is mockery intending to send a message to Zanu-PF leaders that their time in the fire will come." Neither Chamisa nor his representatives publicly explained why the post was removed. Opposition to CAB3 has continued to grow since Parliament approved the Bill, with critics arguing that the proposed amendments could significantly alter Zimbabwe's constitutional order. In addition to political opposition, the Bill has also become the subject of legal challenges seeking to halt its progress before presidential assent. The legislation will only become law if President Mnangagwa signs it. Until then, both political campaigning and court proceedings challenging the constitutional amendment process are expected to continue. Nelson Chamisa CAB3

South Africa's Hawks have confirmed they have no active investigation involving Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, while News24 has apologised for an earlier inaccurate report. HARARE – South Africa's elite crime-fighting unit, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, says it has no active investigation involving Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, contradicting widespread speculation that followed reports about financial transactions linked to Zimbabwe's 2023 election procurement. The clarification is likely to disappoint public finance accountability campaigners in Zimbabwe, who had hoped South African authorities would pursue the matter after local anti-corruption investigations were closed without criminal charges. The controversy stems from Zimbabwe's 2023 general elections, during which a company linked to Chivayo received contracts reportedly worth more than R1.6 billion to supply election materials, including ballot papers, biometric voter registration equipment and stationery. Despite public concern over the procurement process, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) previously said it found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing in its investigations. Attention later shifted to South Africa after the country's Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) reportedly flagged transactions amounting to more than R800 million from election contractor Ren-Form CC to accounts associated with Chivayo. However, the Hawks have now confirmed that no criminal case involving Chivayo exists on their system. Speaking to News24, Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said: "The DPCI has no such case [on Chivayo] in our system." The DPCI is the specialised investigative arm of the South African Police Service (SAPS) responsible for probing priority crimes, including organised crime, serious commercial offences, corruption and money laundering. The clarification follows an earlier statement from South Africa's Presidency, which, without naming Chivayo directly, indicated that the businessman was under police investigation while distancing President Cyril Ramaphosa from him. The issue attracted further public attention after Chivayo travelled on the same helicopter as Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Emmerson Mnangagwa during Ramaphosa's visit to Zimbabwe in May. South African officials later said Chivayo had been invited by President Mnangagwa rather than the South African delegation. The Financial Intelligence Centre has also clarified that it is not a criminal investigative agency. Instead, the FIC gathers and analyses financial intelligence before sharing reports with law enforcement agencies and other competent authorities for possible investigation or asset recovery proceedings where appropriate. Meanwhile, News24 has apologised to Chivayo after publishing a report stating that he was under investigation by both the FIC and the Hawks for alleged money laundering. Following legal correspondence from Chivayo's legal team, led by advocates Dali Mpofu and Eric Mabuza, the publication acknowledged its error. "News24 apologises for the error," the publication said after stating that it had incorrectly reported Chivayo was under investigation by the FIC and Hawks. Chivayo's lawyers argued that the only legal proceedings involving their client in South Africa relate to civil divorce litigation with his estranged wife. They said the dispute concerns interim preservation orders over certain assets and does not involve criminal allegations or fraud investigations. According to the lawyers, assets including the private jet registered as ZAS-ACT belong to Intratrek Holdings, where Chivayo serves as a shareholder and director, rather than to him in his personal capacity. The legal team also clarified that an earlier order issued by the Pretoria High Court was a rule nisi, an interim order granted without Chivayo initially being heard. They said the matter has since been argued before the court, with judgment still pending. Welcoming the Hawks' clarification and News24's correction, Chivayo's lawyers said the developments vindicated their client. They added that they reserved the right to pursue legal action against parties who continue to publish claims that he is under criminal investigation. Chivayo has recently announced plans for multi-million-dollar investments in Kenya, Eswatini and Tanzania, following meetings with leaders in those countries. Wicknell Chivayo investigation

The Masvingo Magistrates' Court acquitted a Bikita police officer after ruling that the prosecution had failed to prove a rape charge beyond a reasonable doubt. MASVINGO – A 47-year-old Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer stationed at Chikuku Police Base in Bikita has been acquitted of rape after the Masvingo Magistrates' Court ruled that the evidence presented did not prove the offence beyond a reasonable doubt. Magistrate Archie Wochiungwa delivered the judgment on 2 July 2026, finding that the complainant and the accused were in a consensual relationship at the time of the alleged incident. According to court proceedings, the State alleged that on 10 May 2025, the complainant, who is now 19 years old, accompanied the police officer to his residence at Chikuku Police Base after they met at Chikuku Business Centre. The prosecution told the court that the complainant had agreed to assist the officer by carrying water to his residence. After arriving at the house, the State alleged that the pair had sexual intercourse. The prosecution further alleged that the accused asked the complainant not to disclose what had happened and promised to marry her before escorting her back to Magudu Business Centre. The matter was not reported to police immediately. Evidence before the court showed that the complaint was made approximately seven months later, after the complainant discovered she was pregnant and informed the accused, who denied responsibility for the pregnancy. The court also heard that the complainant's parents later sent her away from home, after which her mother reported the matter to the police. In his judgment, Magistrate Wochiungwa found that the delay in reporting the matter, together with the evidence presented by the complainant, her mother and the accused, did not support the State's allegation that rape had occurred. "The report was made after seven months, when she found she was pregnant, when the accused denied the pregnancy, and when her parents chased her away. She did not report the matter earlier," the magistrate said in his ruling. The court further noted that testimony from the complainant, her mother and the accused consistently indicated that the complainant and the police officer had been in a relationship and remained in regular contact after the alleged incident. Based on the evidence before it, the court ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove the charge of rape, and the accused was acquitted. Under Zimbabwean criminal law, an acquittal means the prosecution has not established the accused's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It does not necessarily determine every factual dispute between the parties but concludes the criminal proceedings in favour of the accused. Bikita police officer acquitted

Police say a viral video circulating on social media has been wrongly linked to Zimbabweans returning from South Africa and instead relates to an earlier operation in Mazowe. HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has dismissed social media claims that police officers are assaulting Zimbabweans returning home after fleeing xenophobic violence in South Africa, saying a viral video being shared online has been misrepresented. The allegations emerged after a video circulated on social media showing police officers striking a group of men with batons while ordering them to roll on the ground. Some social media users claimed the footage showed returning Zimbabwean migrants being assaulted at Beitbridge Border Post. In a statement issued on Saturday, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the claims were false. According to Commissioner Nyathi, the footage does not depict an operation involving returning migrants but instead relates to an earlier police operation conducted at Jumbo Mine in Mazowe. "For the record, the video in question relates to a mining operation incident at Jumbo Mine in Mazowe sometime back," Commissioner Nyathi said. "It has nothing to do at all with returning residents from South Africa or the situation at Beitbridge Border Post." The police said there was no operation targeting Zimbabweans returning from South Africa and urged members of the public to verify information before sharing it on social media. "The ZRP therefore dismisses as false and misleading social media claims alleging that police officers are conducting an operation targeting returning immigrants," Nyathi said. He added that investigations had been launched to identify individuals responsible for circulating what police described as false and misleading information. "Investigations have now been instituted to account for those who are peddling false information through abuse or misuse of social media platforms," he said. The statement comes amid heightened public attention following reports that some Zimbabwean nationals have been returning home after being displaced by anti-immigrant incidents in parts of South Africa. While the ZRP clarified the origin of the video, its statement did not comment on questions raised by some social media users regarding the conduct of officers shown in the footage during the mining operation. Under Zimbabwean law, the use of force by law enforcement officers is governed by the Constitution and other applicable legislation, with police expected to exercise their powers within the limits prescribed by law. The authenticity of the video itself has not been disputed by the police. Rather, the ZRP maintains that the footage has been incorrectly linked to the situation involving returning Zimbabwean migrants at Beitbridge. ZRP denies assault claims TagsZimbabwe Republic Police, Beitbridge, South Africa, Xenophobia, Mazowe, Jumbo Mine, Paul Nyathi, Viral Video, Crime News, Southerton Business Times

HARARE – The High Court has reopened a long-running property dispute involving jailed businessman Frank Buyanga's company, Hamilton Property Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, ruling that serious allegations of fraud and disputed ownership can only be resolved through a full trial. In a judgment delivered by Justice Siyabona Musithu, the court granted Hamilton Property Holdings and conveyancing clerk Martin Murimambeva permission to file their application out of time, rescinded a default judgment issued in October 2024, and removed a procedural bar that had prevented them from defending the lawsuit brought by Monoliser Investments (Pvt) Ltd. The ruling restores Hamilton's right to contest ownership of Lot 1 of Mvagazi in Hurungwe, after an earlier judgment cancelled the company's title deed and ordered the property to revert to Monoliser Investments. "The cancellation of registered title is an extraordinary remedy," Justice Musithu said. "It affects real rights in immovable property and should ordinarily occur after all affected parties have been heard." The dispute centres on whether Hamilton lawfully purchased the Hurungwe property from Monoliser Investments in June 2009. Hamilton maintains that it bought the property for US$30,000, paid the full purchase price on the day the agreement was signed and subsequently obtained transfer of title later that year. The company further argues that Monoliser never surrendered vacant possession of the land, prompting eviction proceedings in 2022. While those proceedings were still pending, Monoliser obtained a default judgment in October 2024 after Hamilton failed to enter an appearance to defend the matter. That judgment resulted in the cancellation of Hamilton's registered title. Hamilton argued that it failed to respond because it had not been properly served with the summons. The company said Buyanga, who signed the original sale agreement on its behalf, has been incarcerated in South Africa since November 2022, delaying instructions to its legal representatives and resulting in its rescission application being filed about two months outside the prescribed time limit. Justice Musithu accepted that explanation. "The explanation was plausible and bona fide," the judge ruled. "It was not disputed that Frank Buyanga... was in prison at the time that proceedings were initiated." The court also found that the delay was not excessive and that the applicants acted promptly once they became aware of the default judgment. Monoliser Investments disputes Hamilton's version of events, arguing that no genuine property sale took place. Instead, the company contends that the US$30,000 advanced by Hamilton was a loan rather than payment for the property. It further alleges that Hamilton fraudulently transferred ownership using a forged sale agreement and an unauthorised representative. Monoliser also pointed to inconsistencies in the documentation, arguing that one purported agreement reflected a purchase price of US$80,000, while Hamilton's court papers referred to US$30,000. Justice Musithu ruled that these conflicting claims could not be properly resolved through affidavit evidence alone. "There are irreconcilable disputes of fact which cannot be resolved on the papers," he said. "The allegations are also criminal in nature and likely to attract heavy criminal sanctions if proven... Such allegations require the adducing of viva voce evidence." The judge added that allegations of fraud are serious and should be tested through oral testimony during a full trial rather than determined summarily. Quoting established legal principles, Justice Musithu emphasised that Zimbabwean law strongly protects property rights and that ownership disputes should be determined only after all affected parties have been fully heard. He concluded that refusing Hamilton's application would permanently deprive the company of an opportunity to defend a judgment that cancelled its registered title. "Such an outcome is grievous," the judge said. Finding that Monoliser would suffer no comparable prejudice if the case proceeded to trial, the court set aside the October 2024 default judgment and ordered Hamilton Property Holdings and Murimambeva to file their appearance to defend within five days. The substantive dispute over ownership of the Hurungwe property will now proceed to a full hearing before the High Court, where evidence relating to the alleged property sale, the claimed loan arrangement and the fraud allegations will be tested. Frank Buyanga property dispute

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a woman in connection with the death of her 18-year-old co-wife in a suspected arson attack in Mudzi, while three other suspects have been arrested over a separate murder case in Chiweshe. In a statement, police said Elizabeth Ponji was arrested on 2 July 2026 in connection with the death of Loveness Zinhu, who died during a fire at Rwamba Business Centre in Mudzi on 1 July 2026. According to the ZRP, investigators allege that Ponji set fire to a shop and adjoining bedroom where Zinhu and her husband, Peter Mudzengerere (30), were asleep. Police further allege that before igniting the fire, the suspect poured an unknown substance on the floor of the building. Mudzengerere reportedly managed to escape from the burning structure but later lost consciousness. Police have not disclosed the extent of his injuries or his current medical condition. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal fire are continuing. Three arrested over Chiweshe murder In a separate incident, police have arrested Talent Chidamba (29), Maxwell Makuvatsine (21) and Nibert Nhau, also known as "Longers", in connection with murder and attempted murder charges arising from a violent attack at Rosa Business Centre in Chiweshe. The incident allegedly occurred at about 2:35 am on 2 July 2026. According to police, the three suspects allegedly acted together with four accomplices who remain at large. Investigators allege that the group attacked two men following a misunderstanding at a nightclub during what police described as a beer-drinking spree. During the alleged assault, Shepherd Achangu (22) sustained a stab wound and later died after being admitted to hospital. The second victim suffered serious head injuries and remains hospitalised. Police have launched a manhunt for four additional suspects identified as Matthew Matemai, Welly Tatenda Matemai, Nathan Tapiwa Matemai and Tafadzwa Peter. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has appealed to members of the public with information that could assist investigators to report it to the nearest police station or contact the National Complaints Desk. As both matters are before the courts and remain under investigation, the allegations against the suspects have not yet been tested in court. All accused persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court. Mudzi murder case

Workers at Indarama Ming Chang Mine in Kwekwe have appealed for government intervention over alleged workplace safety and labour concerns. KWEKWE – A group of workers at Indarama Ming Chang Mine in Kwekwe has appealed for urgent government intervention, alleging unsafe working conditions, inadequate welfare facilities and unfair labour practices at the gold mining operation. In a statement circulated publicly, the workers said they support mining investment and want to continue working but claimed their concerns over workplace safety and conditions have not been adequately addressed. The employees alleged that workers are being required to perform duties in hazardous areas without adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). They further claimed that when protective equipment is available, employees are required to purchase items such as safety helmets, boots, gloves and dust masks instead of receiving them from the employer. The workers also alleged that the mine lacks reliable access to clean drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities, forcing some employees to rely on untreated water while working. According to the statement, employees are also concerned about wages and career progression, claiming there is no transparent grading or salary structure and limited opportunities for promotion. The workers further alleged that some employees are housed in temporary structures that do not meet acceptable health and safety standards. They also claimed that workers who raise concerns through internal channels face victimisation, including dismissals without due process, allegations that could not be independently verified. In their appeal, the workers called on the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to investigate compliance with mining safety regulations, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to examine alleged labour law violations, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care to assess occupational health, water and sanitation conditions. They also appealed for intervention from the Office of the President. "We are not trying to damage the mine. We are asking for the law to be upheld: safe PPE, clean water, decent toilets, fair pay, proper housing, and the right to speak without fear of being fired," the statement reads. Zimbabwe's Labour Act, the Factories and Works Act, and mining safety regulations require employers to provide safe working environments, while occupational health standards place obligations on employers to protect workers from avoidable workplace hazards. Southerton Business Times sought comment from Indarama Ming Chang Mine regarding the allegations. At the time of publication, the company had not responded. This article will be updated if a response is received. The newspaper has also sought comment from the relevant government ministries regarding whether inspections or investigations have been initiated. The allegations have not been tested before any court or tribunal, and no findings have been made against the company. Indarama Ming Chang Mine