Mine Dispute: Chinese National Murders Zimbabwean
A Chinese national has been arrested and taken to court for murder, attempted murder and assault of Zimbabweans after they were in a mining dispute.
On May 26, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded at Blackhand 10 Mine in Zhombe involving four workers from Village Tirivannhu under Chief Njelele, Gokwe. These individuals, Goni Goni (23), Komborerai Shariwa (24), John Muchawaya (34), and Lovemore Mapfanya (20), were working underground when they allegedly encroached into another shaft at Blue Belle Mine, which is owned by Cai Yulong (58), a Chinese national.
According to the allegations, Cai Yulong, armed with a pistol, approached the workers and shot Goni Goni in the left thigh, resulting in his immediate death. The accused then reportedly shot John Muchawaya three times: in the left knee, right ankle, and left thigh.
Mine Dispute: Chinese National Murders Zimbabwean
Muchawaya is currently recovering from his injuries at Kwekwe General Hospital. Furthermore, Cai Yulong is accused of assaulting Lovemore Mapfanya by striking him on the head with a fist. Mapfanya managed to escape and reported the incident to the authorities, leading to Cai Yulong’s arrest.
Cai Yulong appeared before the Kwekwe Magistrates’ Court, where he faced one count of murder, one count of attempted murder, and one count of assault. The court has remanded him in custody until June 11, 2024, pending further legal proceedings.
The case is one of many others that are rising where Chinese businessmen and minors are being reported for different crimes around Zimbabwe. Some are well-known for assaulting their workers, especially in the mining sector. The police keep urging people to try not to use violence when they face disagreements in the workplace, as these can turn deadly.
