MATSILOJE GOLD MINING

Article By: Charity Baitsiwe

Five Zimbabwean nationals have been arrested for illegal mining, just days after Minister for State President Moeti Mohwasa and Botswana Police Commissioner Dinah Marathe visited the Old Matsiloje mine.

The suspects, Thamsanga Tshabalala (44), Welcome Rashamira (23), Brighton Mpofu (27), and two minors, were apprehended on Tuesday and appeared before the court yesterday.

They pleaded guilty to two charges of illegal mining and entering Botswana through an ungazetted point of entry.

State Prosecutor Semaseko Pelotshwana opposed bail, arguing that they are illegal immigrants without a fixed residence in Botswana.

The accused pleaded for forgiveness, claiming it was their first time in Botswana, but the court remanded them in custody.

They are set to reappear on April 3, 2025.