by Derick Tsimba

Mazoe police have launched a blitz on illegal miners in and around Mazoe area leading to the arrest of close to 1000 illegal miners, The Harare Post can report.

The National Police Operation which sprung to action early this week, hit areas in Mashonaland Central Province targeting Jumbo Mine where illegal mining had become prominent with the machete- wielding gangs in full force.

Police have dubbed the Major Operation, “Operation Chikorokoza ngachipere, no to machete wielding gangs,” to curb all illegal gold mining activities in the country.

Speaking to The Harare Post on condition of anonymity, Mazoe Police Officer in Charge said he could not give finer details about the operation referring to his seniors who were not available at the police post.

Police have since taken up the long arms of the law to would be illegal gold mining offenders. A Police Support Unit base has also been opened at Jumbo Mine where arrests are continuing to be made.

Meanwhile, police continue to conduct stop and search operation in areas surrounding Mazoe, restricting illegal miners from transporting gold ore, The Harare Post has learnt.