Artisanal Miners Burn 5 Chinese-Owned Excavators In Violent Shurugwi Mine Dispute

5 Excavators Torched At Chinese-Owned Shurugwi Mine As Police Investigate Violent Clashes

Five excavators belonging to a Chinese-owned mining company were allegedly set ablaze during violent clashes involving artisanal miners at Wanderer Mine in Shurugwi on Tuesday, 3 November 2026. The confrontation reportedly left two mine security personnel hospitalised after they were allegedly assaulted.

The incident occurred at Wanderer Mine Site Number 4, operated by Chengxi Mine, following a dispute over access to the company’s gold claims.

Midlands police have confirmed the violence, with investigations underway to establish what happened and identify those responsible.

Five Excavators Set Ablaze At Shurugwi Mine

The Masvingo Mirror reports that tensions erupted after mine security personnel allegedly attempted to remove artisanal miners who had entered the mining premises.

Sources told the publication that the situation escalated after security personnel apprehended some of the suspected trespassers.

The confrontation subsequently turned violent, with the suspects allegedly setting five excavators on fire before fleeing the scene.

Two security personnel were reportedly admitted to hospital after sustaining injuries during the clashes.

Zimbabwe Police Confirm Wanderer Mine Violence

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident but said authorities were still gathering information.

Mahoko said:

“I can confirm that there is violence incident which happened at Wanderer Mine. Machinery was burnt but we are yet to get more details about the incident. Investigations are underway, officers are attending the scene.”

The suspects had not been accounted for at the time of publication.

The police investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the destruction of the mining equipment and the alleged assault of security personnel.