Patience Muchemwa - Senior Reporter
An artisanal gold miner was arrested on Sunday by the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) loss control personnel after he was caught digging for gold directly beneath a section of railway track in Mvuma, causing extensive damage to the ground supporting the rail line.
According to the NRZ, the illegal mining activity took place within the railway reserve — a protected area that stretches 45 metres on either side of the tracks. Mining or prospecting in this zone is a criminal offence under the Railways Act and is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment.
In a statement posted on their X page, the NRZ issued a stern warning to the public, “We strongly urge all individuals to refrain from engaging in mining activities within the railway reserve. Such actions not only endanger lives and infrastructure but also constitute a serious criminal offense.”
The suspect is expected to face charges related to illegal mining and destruction of critical infrastructure. Authorities have reiterated that the safety of railway operations and passengers remains a top priority.
The incident underscores growing concerns about illegal mining practices across the country, especially in areas where critical infrastructure is at risk.
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