In an exchange of fire in Bindura last Friday afternoon, an alleged ringleader of a group of machete-wielding illegal miners was killed by members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
According to the ZRP, 21-year old Claudius Tavazera who has been on the list of police most wanted persons, was killed in a shootout incident following reports that the now deceased and 30 other suspects who are still at large had attacked and kidnapped two employees at Botha Mining Syndicate.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the death of Claudius Tavazera, who died in a shootout incident which occurred in Bindura on March 4, 2022 at about 1200hrs,” said police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi yesterday.
He also added that:
“Police received reports of kidnapping and attempted murder where two complainants employed by Botha Mining Syndicate were attacked and kidnapped by a group of approximately 31 illegal gold miners who were armed with machetes, spears, knobkerries, catapults, logs, switches knives and axes. The suspects attacked the complainants on allegations of planning to drive illegal gold miners out of the Kitsiyatota area.”
Police said they encountered the gang which attacked the officers prompting them to call for reinforcements and to fire four warning shots.
The suspects kept on advancing while mobilising others to attack the police until one of the leaders was shot on the left knee. The suspects disappeared and police rescued the
victims. The victims and the shot suspect were referred to Bindura Hospital where the suspect died while receiving treatment.”
Nyathi said Tavazera and some of his accomplices were on police wanted list over robbery and rape cases which occurred in Chinhamhora.
Nyathi said they had since launched a manhunt for other suspects who include Kudakwashe Njenge and Behavior Gwaimai, among others. privatemedia.
Zwnews
