Mliswa Detained Over Rengwe Conservancy Dispute

Oscar J Jeke- Zim Now Reporter

Former independent legislator Temba Mliswa says he has been detained at Magunje Police Station on charges of prospecting for minerals without a licence, in the latest twist to the ongoing Rengwe Conservancy dispute.

Mliswa announced his arrest on Monday evening, alleging that Commissioner General Mutamba, and Commissioner Nyazema had “gone personal” over the case. He is expected to appear in court on Wednesday.

The development comes just days after the High Court ordered the Zimbabwe Republic Police to withdraw personnel from Rengwe Conservancy, allowing Cubs Den Consolidated (Pvt) Ltd — with which Mliswa is linked, to resume operations.

On 22 August 2025, Justice Wamambo granted a provisional order following an urgent application by Cubs Den Consolidated against the police, the Environmental Management Agency, and several government ministries. The applicant argued that police presence at the conservancy had unlawfully disrupted operations.

Welcoming the ruling at the time, Mliswa described it as a victory for constitutionalism and the rule of law. “This development reaffirms our status as a Constitutional country… This ruling empowers us to persist in our endeavours, fortified by the understanding that any party, person or entity can be brought before the courts for justice,” he said.

He added that the conservancy’s goal is to restore wildlife populations, attract tourism — particularly hunting — and contribute to local and national economic growth.

Mliswa also suggested he may pursue legal action against the police for losses incurred, citing what he called repeated abuses of state security structures for personal agendas.

The High Court ruling gave the Provincial Commissioner of Police for Mashonaland West, the Commissioner General of Police, and the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife ten days to oppose confirmation of the order.