“Rescue mission” by illegal miners ends fatally

Itai Mazire

Two daring Nkayi artisanal miners attempted to free their friend who had been arrested by security guards for illegal mining, but their rescue bid ended in tragedy when one was shot dead and the other seriously injured.

The National Police Spokesperson said they have since arrested the security guards in connection with cases of murder and attempted murder.

“Police in Nkayi arrested two security guards, Mbekhezele Ngwabi (52) and Elisha Matsvai (45), in connection with murder and attempted murder cases which occurred on 30 November 2025 at DGL5 Mine, Inyathi.

“An illegal miner was shot dead while another was injured. Ngwabi allegedly shot Thabo Ngwenya (24) with a 12-bore rifle in the chest and neck, while Elisha Matsvai shot Nkosikhona Moyo (19) in the eye and left arm,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

He said Ngwenya died on the way to hospital, while Nkosikhona Moyo sustained gunshot injuries.

“The victims had confronted the suspects, demanding the release of their friend who had been apprehended by the suspects for conducting illegal mining activities at the mine.”