Police in Bulawayo have busted a robbery syndicate targeting small-scale miners, recovering 50 kilogrammes of gold ore and arresting two suspects linked to a violent raid at Happy Valley C Mine, a small-scale operation emblematic of the sector’s growing vulnerability to criminal gangs, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Dylan Ndlovu (26) and Vuyani Ndlovu (28) were arrested on 2 August 2025 in connection with the robbery, which saw five men storm the small-scale mine, assault mine workers, and loot valuables from the mine house. The suspects allegedly made off with three smartphones, three blankets, a solar panel, a pair of shoes, and groceries—everyday essentials vital for workers at small mining operations.
In a statement confirming the arrests, National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi declared:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against crime in the country. The police will ensure that robbery syndicates are brought to justice and the law takes its course without fear or favour.”
The police recovered the stolen shoes, a button stick, a 20-litre bucket, the 50kg of gold ore, and a hammer mill cracker, a piece of processing equipment suggesting the suspects intended to quickly monetize their loot.
Three other accomplices remain on the run as police intensify efforts to dismantle the gang. The incident starkly highlights the increasing dangers faced by Zimbabwe’s small-scale miners, who are not only battling economic hardships but also a surge in violent criminal activity in gold-producing areas.
Authorities have called on the public to assist with information that could lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects.
