GURUVE – The community of Guruve in Mashonaland Central is mourning the loss of prominent illegal miner, Ben Nyakuruvimba, who was fatally attacked with a machete by unidentified colleagues last week. Nyakuruvimba’s death has once again brought attention to the growing menace of violence associated with illegal gold mining in the area.
The fatal incident reportedly occurred at one of the informal mining sites that have proliferated across the region. Witnesses said the attack involved multiple individuals, although no arrests have yet been made, and the identities of the assailants remain unknown. Details about the motive behind the assault remain unclear, with speculation suggesting disputes over mining claims or control of gold-rich sections may have played a role.
Local residents expressed shock and fear following the brutal killing. Sarudzai Majuba, a long-time community member, described the tense atmosphere in Guruve. “We are now living in fear of illegal gold miners who are assaulting people with machetes, injuring, and even killing people in our Guruve area,” she said. “This is no longer just about theft or quarrels; it has become a matter of life and death for anyone near the mines.”
Guruve Community Mourns Illegal Miner Fatally Assaulted by Colleagues
Residents report that machete attacks and other forms of violence have become increasingly common in areas surrounding informal mining operations. Many incidents, they say, go unreported due to mistrust of law enforcement or fear of retaliation. The prevalence of unregulated mining has created an environment where disputes over gold extraction escalate quickly into violent confrontations, placing ordinary community members at risk.
Despite the severity of Nyakuruvimba’s case, official responses from authorities have been limited. Acting Mashonaland Central police spokesperson, Lucy Chigwenhese, stated that the case had not yet been formally lodged at the local station. “We are yet to receive the case, but I am assuring you that as soon as we get the case, we will give it to you,” she said when contacted for comment.
The delay in filing a formal complaint has raised concerns among residents about the capacity of local authorities to manage escalating violence linked to illegal mining. Many feel that the lack of timely intervention by law enforcement contributes to a culture of impunity, emboldening perpetrators to continue violent acts without fear of consequence.
The death of Nyakuruvimba also underscores broader challenges in the Guruve district, where illegal mining activities have increased significantly in recent years. Informal miners, drawn by reports of rich alluvial gold deposits, often operate without safety protocols or regulatory oversight. Disputes over mining claims, access to equipment, and distribution of profits frequently escalate into physical confrontations, leaving communities vulnerable.
Community leaders have called for urgent action to address the issue. They are urging authorities to increase patrols, conduct regular inspections of informal mining sites, and ensure that perpetrators of violence are held accountable. Residents also advocate for awareness campaigns to educate miners about the legal implications of their activities and to promote safer practices in gold extraction.
The funeral of Nyakuruvimba was attended by family, friends, and fellow miners, many of whom expressed grief over the tragic loss while also voicing frustration at the persistent threats posed by unregulated mining. Several attendees stressed that unless decisive action is taken, similar violent incidents are likely to continue, further destabilizing the region.
Police investigations are expected to proceed once the case is officially filed. Authorities have pledged to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. However, community members remain anxious that delays and logistical challenges may impede swift justice.
The incident has sparked wider debate in Guruve and across Mashonaland Central about the need to formalize small-scale mining operations, regulate claims more effectively, and introduce stronger safety and security measures. Advocates argue that legalizing and monitoring informal mining could reduce conflicts and minimize the risk of violent encounters among miners, thereby protecting both workers and local communities.
For now, the death of Ben Nyakuruvimba stands as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal gold mining in Zimbabwe. As the community mourns, many hope that this tragedy will galvanize authorities and stakeholders to implement measures that will prevent similar incidents and restore a sense of security in Guruve’s mining areas.
Source- Byo24
