MUTOKO – Police in Mutoko have launched a full-scale investigation following an attempted robbery at China Zhuhe Mining’s gold mine in the early hours of October 9, 2025, which left one suspected robber dead.
According to a statement issued by China Zhuhe Mining Co. Ltd., a gang of unidentified assailants scaled the courtyard wall of the mine at around 00:33 a.m. in an apparent bid to rob the premises. An on-duty Chinese engineer, who was legally armed with a licensed firearm for mining security operations, fired several warning shots into the air to deter the intruders. The gang reportedly fled in different directions.
Later that morning, at around 7:00 a.m., local workers discovered a critically injured man approximately one kilometre from the mine. He reportedly admitted to having been part of the robbery before succumbing to his injuries shortly before police arrived.
Mr. Zilu, the mine’s local translator and supervisor, immediately notified law enforcement authorities after being informed of the discovery.
However, before the police reached the area, some local villagers, unaware of the full details of the incident, surrounded several Chinese employees, suspecting foul play. The situation was swiftly contained after police intervention.
Law enforcement officials have since arrested one accomplice, who has confessed to his involvement in the robbery, while a manhunt for the remaining suspects is underway.
The Chinese engineer involved in the incident is cooperating with authorities as investigations continue.
China Zhuhe Mining expressed appreciation to the police for their timely response and reiterated its commitment to complying with local laws and maintaining cooperation with the community and law enforcement.
