NKAYI – Police in Nkayi have arrested two security guards in connection with a murder and attempted murder incident reported at Durable Gold (DGL5) Mine in Inyathi, Matabeleland North, on 30 November. The case has drawn significant public attention as authorities work to establish how a dispute at the mine escalated into deadly violence.
The two suspects, identified as Mbekhezele Ngwabi (52) and Elisha Matsvai (45), were taken into custody shortly after the confrontation. Both men were employed as security guards at the mine, which has over the years experienced repeated tensions between mine authorities and groups of illegal miners seeking access to the gold-rich claims.
According to preliminary police reports, the incident unfolded when a group of illegal miners allegedly approached the guards demanding the release of one of their colleagues. The individual had reportedly been apprehended earlier for entering the mining area without authorization. It is understood that the confrontation intensified when demands for his release were rejected, leading to a heated exchange between the two groups.
Police allege that during this altercation, Ngwabi discharged a rifle, resulting in fatal injuries to Thabo Ngwenya (24). Ngwenya was rushed for medical assistance but did not survive the journey. Meanwhile, Nkosikhona Moyo (19) sustained serious injuries after Matsvai reportedly fired in his direction during the confrontation. Moyo was taken for treatment and survived, and authorities say he is assisting investigators with background information on the incident. Out of respect for the individuals involved and to ensure safe reporting for young readers, no graphic details have been included.
Inyathi Mine Shooting: Two Security Guards Taken Into Custody
Law enforcement officials have said the matter is being treated with urgency due to the use of firearms and the severity of the incident. Police have already secured the weaponry allegedly used and have taken statements from witnesses present at the mine during the dispute. The area has since been placed under increased security as investigators work to piece together a clear timeline of events.
The confrontation highlights long-standing tensions at various mining sites across Matabeleland North, where disputes between licensed operators and informal miners, commonly known as amakorokoza, have at times escalated into conflict. Authorities say illegal mining remains a persistent challenge, with reports of miners entering restricted zones in search of gold ore. Mine operators, in turn, often hire private guards to secure the premises, a practice that has sometimes led to clashes.
Police spokespersons have emphasized the need for all parties to respect the law and follow established procedures when addressing disputes. They noted that while security personnel have a responsibility to protect property, they are also required to adhere to legal standards governing the use of force. Likewise, individuals found engaging in unlawful mining activities are subject to arrest under Zimbabwe’s mining regulations.
In their initial statement, investigators explained that the group of miners reportedly approached the guards in what began as a verbal confrontation before tensions escalated. The guards’ decision to detain one miner sparked emotions within the group, leading to the demand for his immediate release. While full details of the exchange remain under review, police say attempts to negotiate quickly deteriorated, culminating in the shooting incident.
Police have appealed to members of the public who may have been present or who have relevant information to come forward. Additional interviews are expected as investigators seek clarity on whether the use of firearms was justified, excessive, or provoked by actions from either side. The findings will guide possible charges and legal proceedings.
Community leaders in Nkayi and Inyathi have also weighed in, urging restraint and encouraging peaceful solutions to disputes involving mining activities. Some have called for increased government oversight of private security operations in mining zones, while others have stressed the need for economic interventions that reduce reliance on informal mining for survival.
For now, Ngwabi and Matsvai remain in police custody as the investigation continues. Authorities say updates will be provided once the full facts are established and formal charges have been confirmed.
Police concluded their statement by reminding the public that “ongoing inquiries are being conducted to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.” They reiterated that preserving life and maintaining peace around mining areas remains a priority and encouraged communities to report conflicts before they escalate.
The case remains under active investigation.
Source- Bulawayo24
