A worrying trend of murder cases linked to mining disputes has emerged in Midlands Province, with hotspots in Shurugwi, Zvishavane, Gokwe, and Mberengwa, according to the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
Addressing the media on Monday, Assistant Commissioner Helena Mahonde revealed that most of the accused persons in recent murder cases were artisanal miners.
“Many of these crimes stem from petty disputes, including conflicts over girlfriends, past grievances, and even refusal to buy each other alcohol,” she said.
Authorities are calling for greater community cooperation in crime prevention and urging miners to resolve disputes through legal means rather than violence. The police have vowed to intensify operations in mining areas to curb the rising trend of violent crime.
