The machete-wielding gangs, the infamous MaShurugwi that have been terrorising Zimbabweans across the country have their origins in Shurugwi, under Chief Nhema, a Zim Morning Post report claims.
The machete gangs reportedly started mobilising near the late Rhodesian Prime Minister Ian Smith’s farm, around the Gwenoro area. Armed with machetes, knives and axes, the gangs targeted other artisanal miners, then known as “makorokoza”.
According to a spirit medium who spoke to the publication at Cricket Mine in Battlefields, gold is a “bloodstone” and wherever it is discovered there is shedding of blood.
With the discovery of gold in various parts of the country, MaShurugwi then spread their wings to unleash terror in other areas.
During the diamond rush in Chiadzwa, they had their base at Chakohwa Growth Point from where they planned their activities.
Since their formation in Shurugwi many years ago, MaShurugwi gangs have been transformed in how they operate.
The ruling ZANU PF party allegedly absorbed the gangs after realising that it was difficult to disband them.
Another militia group with reported links to ZANU PF is Al-Shabab, which operates from the Midlands. The group has factions identified by the names of football clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, Barcelona, etc.
Chipangano reigned supreme in Mbare under Jim Kunaka before he was expelled from ZANU PF.
In Mashonaland West, the Top Six dominated, with a base in Chinhoyi.
The terrorist groups at present seem to be above the law as they have the temerity to attack even law-enforcement agents.