Gweru regional magistrate Christopher Maturure on Wednesday found Chinese national Liu Haifeng (52) not guilty of attempted murder.
The charges against Liu stemmed from a labour dispute at Ming Chang Sino Africa Bijou Farm on the outskirts of Gweru in January 2025. 
The State alleged that Liu fired gunshots at Kholwani Dube, a farm employee, following a disagreement.
However, in his ruling, Maturure found that Dube was the aggressor in the incident. The magistrate also noted that the second State witness failed to corroborate the evidence submitted by the complainant.
Liu was represented by lawyers from Gundu, Dube and Pamacheche Legal Practitioners.
Prosecuting, Monica Mungwena told the court that on January 21, 2025, at around 4 PM, Liu, the farm manager, fired three shots towards Dube after a misunderstanding over a task assignment. Dube had refused to execute the task and was subsequently served with a suspension letter.
The court heard that Dube demanded his salary before leaving the workplace, leading to an altercation.
Another Chinese national, Wang Jun, a stores man, arrived at the scene and allegedly joined in the fight. 
Liu dropped his pistol, which Wang picked up and pointed at Dube’s head, pressing him to the ground and tying him with a wire.
In his defence, Liu claimed that he only fired two warning shots in the air after Dube turned violent, threatening to run over his Chinese bosses with a grader.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039468/chinese-national-acquitted-for-attempted-murder">NewsDay</a>

Pindula News

A Chinese man named Liu Haifeng was accused of shooting at a farm worker in Zimbabwe during a dispute, but the judge said he did not do it on purpose. The judge said the farm worker was actually the one who started the fight. Another worker also got involved. Liu said he only shot in the air to scare the farm worker after he threatened to hurt Liu's bosses. In the end, Liu was found not guilty of attempted murder.

Chinese National Acquitted Of Attempted Murder Charge

ZANU PF has criticized Eddie Cross, a prominent economist and former member of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s (RBZ) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), for his recent claims about Chinese nationals in Zimbabwe.
In a recent article on his website, Cross claimed that there are now more than 85,000 Chinese nationals residing in Zimbabwe.
He said the Chinese nationals are not permanent migrants but plan to return to China after exhausting the country’s mineral resources.
Cross also alleged that the Chinese are looking to transfer environmentally polluting industries to Africa, seeking to capitalize on the continent’s natural resources while avoiding environmental constraints at home.
The former MDC MP further claimed that the exploitation of Zimbabwe’s raw materials by the Chinese began after the discovery of diamonds in Marange.
He said US$30 billion in raw diamonds has been produced between 2008 and the present day, benefiting only the Chinese and old Army Generals, while the people of Marange continue to live in poverty.
In response, Farai Marapira, the Director of Information and Publicity for ZANU PF, suggested that Cross’ comments were xenophobic.
He categorically rejected the claims made by Cross and warned economic commentators against undermining the country’s economic progress by attacking investors. Said Marapira:
<blockquote>
They must be more objective in the assessment of issues. We have attacks coming from all and sometimes surprising people.
I will give an example of Eddie Cross. He wrote a full article and spent a lot of energy writing spurious lies, maliciously attacking the open door policy of the President, throwing in false figures, stating that we have 85,000 Chinese when we have only 25,000 and these are in the mining sector.
These are here at the behest of the President as he has stated that Zimbabwe is open for all.
So, these malicious attacks need to stop. These attacks are trying circumvent our natural progression which we are aspiring for as a people. They need to stop.
We cannot expect educated economists to be giving out articles which are less than bar talk or pillow talk.
</blockquote>
Marapira also rejected Cross’ claim that Zimbabwe has 9 billion tonnes of untapped Chrome deposits worth a conservative US$100 trillion. He said:
<blockquote>
Eddie Cross cannot defend the US$30 billion claim on diamonds he made… Eddie Cross cannot defend the ranking we put on our chrome deposits, he cannot do that.
So we need to stop developing thoughts of xenophobia. We need to welcome all who want to come and develop Zimbabwe with us.
</blockquote>
Chinese companies are often accused of causing environmental damage, including deforestation, pollution of water bodies, and destruction of natural habitats.
Critics argue that Chinese investors are primarily interested in extracting Zimbabwe’s natural resources, such as gold, diamonds, and lithium, without adding value locally.
There has also been numerous reports of Chinese companies violating labour rights, including poor working conditions, low wages, and even instances of sexual abuse.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF is mad at Eddie Cross for saying Chinese people in Zimbabwe are doing bad things. Eddie Cross said there are lots of Chinese people in Zimbabwe who want to take the country's minerals and pollute the environment. He also said they are only helping themselves, not the people of Zimbabwe. ZANU PF says Eddie Cross is spreading lies and being mean to the President. They want everyone to work together and not be mean to investors. People are worried that Chinese companies are ruining the environment and mistreating workers in Zimbabwe.

ZANU PF Warns Eddie Cross Over Claims Chinese Investors Are Exploiting Zimbabwe

Outspoken former Chivi South legislator Killer Zivhu (ZANU PF) has claimed that white employers in Zimbabwe treat their Black employees better than their Chinese counterparts.
In a post on X, Zivhu said he was “appalled” at the treatment of his cousin, who works as a driver for a Chinese employer.
He alleged that his cousin is forced to sleep in his car and cook meals in Bulawayo, which he then eats over three days in Harare, while his Chinese bosses enjoy comfortable hotel accommodations and fine dining. Said Zivhu:
<blockquote>
Appalled by Chinese nationals’ treatment of Blacks in Zimbabwe! My cousin, a driver, sleeps in cars while they enjoy hotels. Cooks his meals in Bulawayo kuti agozodya ku Harare for 3 days, while they dine lavishly. White people show more dignity towards Blacks than Chinese.
</blockquote>
Since 2000, when the Zimbabwean government seized farms from white farmers and adopted the “Look East” policy, there has been a significant influx of Chinese nationals, particularly in the mining sector.
However, numerous reports indicate that Chinese employers often mistreat their Black workers, paying them meagre wages and subjecting them to inhumane working conditions.
In September of this year, Daniel Molokele, the Member of Parliament for Hwange Central, criticized Chinese coal miners in the district for failing to adhere to Zimbabwe’s laws.
This came after residents of Ingagula township in Hwange raised concerns about excessive dust pollution caused by the haulage trucks and coal mining activities of the Chinese operators.
Molokele further alleged that Chinese investors are protected from scrutiny due to their connections with influential politicians in Harare.
In August, Farai Maguwu, the founding director of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance, described the growth of Chinese mining operations in Zimbabwe as a form of “organised crime” due to their exploitative practices.
He argued that mines established in Zimbabwe since 2000 have not contributed meaningfully to the improvement of the communities in which they operate. Said Maguwu:
<blockquote>
Mining that is conducted in Zimbabwe is organised crime, it is not really formal. In terms of mines that started operating after the year 2000, the one that I think is a demonstration of unit of environmental social or governance risk is Zimplats.
If you go to Zimplats you will realise that they have invested in the road infrastructure, and they have built a town such that even if Zimplats is said to have ceased operations in Zimbabwe, that settlement will continue to exist.
They have built houses for their staff, it is actually a town that they have built. But those coming from China, they have no intention to stay here, they have no intention to transform the place from the way they found it and turn it into a better place.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

White employers are treating Black workers better than Chinese employers in Zimbabwe. Former lawmaker Killer Zivhu shared how his cousin, who works for a Chinese boss, has to sleep in his car and cook his own meals while the bosses enjoy luxury. Chinese investors in Zimbabwe, especially in the mining sector, are under fire for mistreating employees and not following the country's laws. Chinese mining operations have been described as organized crime by some experts, with little benefit to local communities. This has raised concerns about the impact of Chinese investment in Zimbabwe.

White Employers Treat Black Workers Better Than Chinese, Says Killer Zivhu

Approximately 200 workers employed at the Chinese-operated Jojo Mine near Kwekwe are reportedly living in deplorable conditions, with many residing in makeshift shacks and using the surrounding bushes as improvised toilet facilities, while their Chinese supervisors enjoy the comforts of a plush enclosure nearby.
The workers told <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/200-workers-at-chinese-mine-use-bush-toilets/">The Mirror</a> that they are not provided with any form of protective clothing by the mine management, and they also face a severe lack of clean water for domestic use.
Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Owen Ncube recently toured the mines, which are owned by Ming Chang Sino Africa Mining Investment.
Although he did not visit the living quarters of the workers, Ncube directed the mine management to address the issue of decent accommodation and living conditions for the employees. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
It is unacceptable for workers to stay under deplorable conditions like this. There is overcrowding, no decent accommodation, no ablution and no medical facilities. Failure to provide safety clothing and ill-treatment of workers is unacceptable.
</blockquote>
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GT7InM8XsAAczZg?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
An employee who declined to be named for fear of reprisal told The Mirror:
<blockquote>
These Chinese treat us like slaves. We live under inhumane conditions with no toilets, water and houses. We stay in plastic shacks when they stay in plush houses.
Our health is at risk, they don’t give us protective clothing but instead, they sell the safety shoes and work suits that we should use at work.
</blockquote>
In response, the administrative manager and assistant director for the company, Eric Yan Bo, said that the company was actively working to address the issues surrounding the deplorable living conditions of the workers. He said:
<blockquote>
We are very sorry about the accommodation. The issue is we are short of houses but the company is working towards evicting some illegal miners staying in the company houses.
</blockquote>
Yan Bo said Ming Chang Sino operates three mines in Kwekwe which are Bell, Jojo and Indarama with a total staff complement of 700 workers.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Approximately 200 workers at a Chinese mine in Zimbabwe are living in bad conditions without proper housing, toilets, or clean water. The workers are forced to sleep in shacks and use bushes as toilets, while their Chinese supervisors live in luxury. The government has been made aware of the situation but has not yet taken action. The workers are not given protective clothing and face health risks. The company says they are working on improving the housing situation. The workers feel mistreated and like slaves. The company operates three mines in the area, employing a total of 700 workers.

200 Workers At Chinese Mine Use Bush Toilets, Sleep In Shacks

In a disturbing incident that occurred recently, a Chinese national, whose identity has not been confirmed, was filmed allegedly torturing Zimbabwean workers at Makanga Mine in Bindura, Mashonaland Central Province.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/uproar-after-chinese-national-is-recorded-torturing-local-miners-in-bindura/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, the Chinese national, who is a manager at the mine, is seen in the video tying up the Zimbabwean workers on a loader bucket and raising them in the air.
The manager is then reported to have whipped the workers in the presence of their colleagues, who apparently stood by and watched the abuse unfold.
The Chinese national is said to have carried out this alleged torture over claims that the Zimbabwean workers had stolen an unspecified amount of diesel from the mine. A statement accompanying the video reads:
<blockquote>
The incident is a stark reminder of the exploitation and mistreatment of Zimbabwean workers by foreign investors, and the government’s failure to protect its citizens. We urge all citizens to share the video and join us in demanding justice for the affected worker.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) condemned the incident, describing it as “appalling, vile, inhumane and savage.”
ZMF, which represents miners across the country, urged the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), to arrest the Chinese national. It said:
<blockquote>
This barbaric act is a blatant violation of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which guarantees the right to personal security and freedom from torture or cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment.
We will not stand idly while our members are subjected to such egregious abuse. ZMF vehemently condemns this despicable act and demands immediate arrest and prosecution of the Chinese boss responsible, a thorough investigation into the mine’s labour practices and swift action against any violations.
</blockquote>
Over the years, there have been recurring reports of Zimbabwean workers facing abuse at the hands of their Chinese employers, often with little consequence.
In one recent incident in May 2024, a 58-year-old Chinese miner named Cai Yulong allegedly shot and killed a man from Chief Njelele in Gokwe after the victim and his colleague encroached into Cai’s mining claim in Zhombe, Midlands Province. Cai also reportedly injured the victim’s colleague during the incident.
Just last month, a 51-year-old Chinese national was arraigned before the Gweru Magistrates’ Court on allegations of raping and impregnating a 17-year-old local girl.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A Chinese boss was filmed hurting Zimbabwean workers at a mine in Bindura. The boss tied up workers and raised them in the air. He whipped them because he thought they stole diesel. The miners' group wants the boss to be arrested and punished. Chinese employers have hurt Zimbabwean workers before with no consequences. Another miner shot and killed a man, and another raped a girl. People want the Chinese boss to be arrested and all workers to be treated fairly.

Chinese National Filmed Torturing Local Miners In Bindura

A policewoman based at Bindura Police Station and her accomplice allegedly forced a Chinese national to pay them US$5 000 for dating a local girl.
Chengeto Pwaka, a detective, and her alleged accomplice Nicodemus Mubvumbi, told Chinese national, Gong Changlin who was allegedly dating Tafadzwa Maphosa, that it was illegal to date a local girl.
Pwaka and Mubvumbi were arrested at Bikita Mineral as they were allegedly trying to extort more money from the complainants, reported <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/chinese-forced-to-pay-us5k-for-dating-zim-girl/">The Mirror</a>.
The accused persons were granted US$100 each by the Masvingo Magistrates Court. The case was postponed to June 3, 2024.
The court heard that on April 12, 2024, Pwaka and Mubvumbi travelled from Bindura to Bikita Minerals Mine and told Changlin that it was an offence for a Chinese national to have a love affair with a Zimbabwean.
Pwaka allegedly produced her Criminal Investigations Department (CID) card and she extracted US$ 2,000 from Changlin.
It is further alleged that on the same day, Pwaka threatened to arrest Maphosa for allegedly aborting a pregnancy. She demanded US$700 and the money was sent to her via the EcoCash platform.
On April 30, 2024, Pwaka and Mubvumbi assaulted Maphosa at Bikita Minerals, slapping her several times in the face and threatening to send her to jail.
They were allegedly given US$250 and US$80 also sent through an ecocash account [redacted]. Another US$2 000 was again paid to the accused persons.
The duo allegedly collected a total of US$5030.00 from the Chinese national and his local lover.
On May 18, 2024, the complainants reported the matter to the Police leading to the arrest of the suspects.
The matter is under the CID Forensic Investigations Department.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Rogue" Policewoman Forces Chinese Man To Pay US$5 000 For Dating A Local Girl

A Chinese head of security at Bunyip Gold Mine in Filabusi, Matabeleland South, opened fire on a dozen illegal miners who entered the mine and allegedly stole two sacks of gold ore.
Four of the illegal miners were injured in the shooting which occurred on April 14, 2024.
Two of the injured illegal miners have been admitted to the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) in Bulawayo.
One of the miners who was shot in the shoulder had to undergo a chest drain, a procedure in which a narrow tube is inserted between the ribs to sit in the space between the lung and the chest wall. This is done to prevent the backflow of fluid from the tubing into the chest cavity.
<a href="https://cite.org.zw/chinese-mine-security-head-shoots-four-illegal-miners-in-filabusi/">CITE</a> reported sources sources as saying the Chinese worker shot at the illegal miners with live ammunition, accusing them of illegally prospecting for gold in the mine. Said a source:
<blockquote>
Police recovered 13 rounds of live ammunition but have not arrested the miner as they were engaged in talks with the Chinese embassy.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi told CITE they were still investigating the case to determine what happened. He said:
<blockquote>
Some illegal gold miners are said to have cut the fence and entered the mine through the breather, taking some gold ore in about two sacks in the process, leading to a scuffle.
Then the head of security reacted and fired some shots, but the illegal miners did not comply. The head of security then shot at four of the illegal miners who sustained injuries while the others fled.
</blockquote>
Asked if the Chinese worker would be arrested, Nyathi said the mine was formally registered but the illegal miners committed a criminal act. He said:
<blockquote>
There are two aspects to this case: the criminal act by the miners and the shooting incident. This is a registered mine with a valid certificate of operations and permits.
</blockquote>
Nyathi said the 12 illegal miners, armed with machetes and other weapons, returned to the mine to attack the security officers and take away gold ore.
He said Police are conducting investigations, and will issue a detailed statement in due course.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chinese Mine Security Head Opens Fire On Illegal Miners In Filabusi

Chinese-owned lithium producer, Bikita Minerals Sinomine, has temporarily suspended operations over failure to comply with some requirements particularly the regularisation of expatriate staff and skills transfer to locals.
The mine will cease works for seven days to comply with Government mining regulations.
In a notice to stakeholders, mine manager David Mwanza said that during the 7-day period, the majority of employees are to stay at their homes and residences. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
This notice serves to inform our stakeholders and partners that we have put our operations on hold for 7 days to address administrative concerns raised by authorities at our plant.
As a law-abiding corporate, we remain committed to fully comply(ing) with all requirements of the law and expect to resume operations once all the outstanding issues have been addressed.
In the meantime, the company’s leadership is working closely with all relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is resolved within the stipulated time frame.
During this 7-day period, all employees are to stay at their homes and residences except for those in care and maintenance.
Those on essential services will be required to perform their prescribed duties.
Bikita Minerals employs 860 workers, whose contribution we hold so dearly and during this period the company will continue to meet its obligations to them.
</blockquote>
Sinomine of China last year took over Bikita Minerals in a $US300 million investment and the mine was currently building a spodumene processing plant.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chinese-owned Lithium Miner Suspends Operations In Zimbabwe

The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe has criticised the United States government after the country’s Ambassador-Designate to Zimbabwe, Pamela Tremont, claimed that Chinese investments in Africa do not benefit ordinary people but benefit those in power.
Tremont made the remarks while responding to questions from US senators about how America can better counter Chinese influence in Africa and growing investment during the nomination hearings on 1 March.
In a statement issued on Sunday, 19 March, the Chinese Embassy said the United States should respect the right of Zimbabweans and Africans to choose their friends without external interference. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The US senators and government officials wantonly discussed Zimbabwe’s internal affairs and even smeared China-Zimbabwe cooperation.
I want to challenge them, ‘Who gives them the right to point fingers at other countries’ diplomatic relations?’ The US’ old habit never changes’.
We strongly suggest that the US politicians should study the word ‘respect’ and respect Zimbabwe’s independence and sovereignty, respect the African countries and African people, and respect the normal cooperation between Zimbabwe and other countries.
Zimbabwe has the right to develop friendly relations with any other country without external influence or pressure.
Please remember, Zimbabwe should not be used as a battlefield for the US to counter China, and should not be used as a wrestling ground for major-country rivalry.
We believe that the Zimbabwe government and its people will not allow this to happen in their territory.
</blockquote>
The Chinese Embassy rejected Tremont’s assertion that Chinese projects such as the new Parliament building in Mount Hampden will not benefit the people of Zimbabwe, saying:
<blockquote>
Is the US Capitol not serving the interests of the US people, and is it just benefiting the US congressmen and senators?
If so, the US should stop its budget for maintaining and protecting the Capitol. The US always advocates its model of “democracy”.
Why does Zimbabwe not need a new Parliament building to develop the nation’s democracy?
… It’s easy to find out where the Chinese funds are used and what benefits are generated. This is the best transparency.
If the US failed and even doesn’t want to find out the truth, it is not qualified to comment. We noticed that the new ambassador alleged the US invested US$4.5 billion in Zimbabwe. It is more than one-third of the foreign currency inflows of Zimbabwe for a whole year.
We are curious where the money went, what projects have been completed, what benefits have been brought to the Zimbabwean people, and how much has been spent on “defending democratic space to improve the election system.
If anyone wants to talk about competition, let’s compete on ‘Who contributes more to the development of Zimbabwe?’
If anyone wants to counter something, let’s counter-hegemony and interference in other countries’ internal affairs.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chinese Embassy In Zimbabwe Criticises United States Over Diplomat's Remarks

United States of America Ambassador-Designate to Zimbabwe, Pamela Tremont, says Zimbabweans are aware that Chinese investment in the country does not benefit ordinary people but benefits those in power.
Tremont made the remarks while responding to questions from US senators about how America can better counter Chinese influence in Africa and growing investment during the nomination hearings on 1 March.
She claimed the US$4.5 billion investments by the United States directly benefited Zimbabweans while Chinese investments, such as the Parliament building do not necessarily benefit the Zimbabwean people. <a href="https://cite.org.zw/zimbabweans-aware-chinese-investments-dont-really-benefit-them-us-official/">CITE</a> quoted Tremont as saying:
<blockquote>
Yes, Zimbabwe and China have a long-standing relationship that goes all the way back to Zimbabwe’s war of independence.
I think the difference between Chinese investments in Zimbabwe and perhaps other places in Africa, is the US investments of US$4.5 billion that we have invested in Zimbabwean people, have been for the people.
700 000 Zimbabweans benefited from our food security and agricultural programme last year.
It is tremendously important in light of the food shortages brought on by Russia’s unprovoked war against Ukraine whereas the Chinese investments are much more for the government of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
She was responding to Senator John Barrasso’s observation that in 2022, President Emmerson Mnangagwa commended Zimbabwe’s “excellent relations” with China.
The Chinese built Zimbabwe’s new Parliament building in Mount Hampden at a cost of US$200 million “for free”.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chinese Investments Do Not Benefit Ordinary Zimbabweans - US Diplomat

Residents of Hwange and surrounding communities have implored Parliament to enact laws that compel Chinese coal mining companies operating in the area to desist from environmental degradation and respect labour laws.
There are more than 10 mining companies mining and processing coal in Hwange.
Speaking at a consultative meeting conducted by the Portfolio Committee on Mines and Mining Development in Hwange, residents urged the government to protect local people and the environment, reported CITE.
Local communities raised a number of issues they want to be addressed, among them, environmental degradation, pollution, failure by mining companies to plough back to the community, destruction of infrastructure such as roads, exploitation and victimisation of labour.
Parliament is consulting citizens towards crafting a Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill that seeks to shape the future of mining activities in the country.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Hwange Community Pleads For Protection From Chinese Miners

ZANU PF has cancelled the suspension and prohibition on Mashonaland West provincial youth league chairman, Tapiwa Masenda, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/masendas-suspension-uplifted/">reported The Herald</a>.
ZANU PF national secretary for security Lovemore Matuke is expected to deploy a team to conduct investigations.
Masenda was suspended by the provincial executive committee (PEC) together with the provincial secretary for administration, Rudo Munyonga recently following several allegations of misconduct levelled against him.
He was barred from calling, officiating and addressing any meetings and entering party offices.
The cancellation of Masenda’s suspension will see him continue conducting his duties until the outcome of the investigations.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zanu-pf-mash-west-youth-boss-in-soup-beating-up-on-chinese-miner/">a report by NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Masenda allegedly assaulted a Chinese miner following a mining dispute at a gold-rich mine in Mhangura.
A Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) meeting held in Chinhoyi at the weekend chaired by ZANU PF provincial chairperson, Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, resolved to suspend Masenda.

ZANU PF Revokes Suspension Of Official Who Assaulted Chinese Miner

ZANU PF Mashonaland West Province has resolved to suspend its Youth League chairman, Tapiwa Masenda, for allegedly assaulting a Chinese miner, leaving him badly bruised.
The assault reportedly followed a mining dispute at a gold-rich mine in Mhangura.
A Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) meeting held in Chinhoyi at the weekend chaired by ZANU PF provincial chairperson, Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, resolved to suspend Masenda.
In a statement, ZANU PF provincial secretary for publicity and information, Godknows Murambiwa said Masenda will undergo a disciplinary hearing. Said Murambiwa:
<blockquote>
Cde Tapiwa Masenda, Mashonaland West Youth League provincial Chairman has been issued with a Prohibition Order following several allegations of misconduct levelled against him.
His actions as described by the provincial secretary for security do not have a place in ZANU PF under the new dispensation.
The Provincial Executive Committee invoked powers invested and provided for by the party Constitution under Article 21 Cde Masenda will be going through a disciplinary hearing within 14 days.
We appeal for peace and tranquillity to prevail throughout the province to ensure an unbiased and justified process during and after the hearing period which should be within 14 days.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zanu-pf-mash-west-youth-boss-in-soup-beating-up-on-chinese-miner/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

ZANU PF Mashonaland West Youth League Leader Assaults Chinese Miner

Some workers at the Chinese-owned Hualin Investments (Pvt) Limited mine in Pumula North, Bulawayo, are reportedly sleeping in dog kennels due to a shortage of accommodation.
This was revealed by a study on the mine conducted by the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Dean of the Faculty of Commerce, Peter Nkala.
The research was titled “Quarrying my doorstep: The case of one company in Ward 17, Bulawayo Metropolitan Province”.
Nkala presented his findings at a Policy Brief hosted by the Public Policy and Research Institute of Zimbabwe (PPRZ) last Thursday. He said:
<blockquote>
Some of the concerns raised are that blasting is affecting the houses and other infrastructure in the area.
There is damage to the roads in the area as 21-tonne trucks coming to collect the quarry are damaging roads.
Employment of outsiders who are actually desperate that they accept living in dog kennels.
… People are working long hours and are underpaid. Dust from the quarry is affecting people as well as flora and fauna.
There are unfulfilled promises by the investor such as donating Jojo tanks.
The company drilled a borehole to meet their water requirements but it is said they will not share the water with the community, which is not good neighbourliness.
</blockquote>
After the presentations, participants queried how Hualin was allowed to operate without considering the effects of its activities on the environment.
Ward 17 councillor, Sikhululekile Moyo, who was also present at the policy brief, said Hualin applied to operate as was given a licence by the Ministry of Mines. | <a href="https://cite.org.zw/chinese-mine-workers-sleeping-in-dog-kennels/">CITE</a>

Workers At A Mine Owned By Chinese Firm Sleeping In Dog Kennels

Protests against China’s restrictive COVID-19 policies have reportedly spread to more cities.
The wave of protests was triggered by a deadly fire in the western Xinjiang region that has been connected to the country’s strict lockdown policies.
According to AFP news agency, hundreds of students from Beijing’s Tsinghua University rallied at their campus on Sunday calling for an end to lockdowns.
Similar protests occurred overnight in Shanghai, China’s most populous city and financial hub, as well as at a university in the eastern city of Nanjing.
Internet users say the 10 people who died in a fire in an apartment building in Xinjiang’s capital city, Urumqi wouldn’t have lost their lives if there was no lockdown.
They say residents of the high-rise building could not escape in time because the building was partially locked down. But the city officials have dismissed the claim.
One protestor in Shanghai who gave only his family name, Zhao, told AP that one of his friends was beaten by police and two friends were pepper-sprayed.
He also claimed that police stomped his feet as he tried to stop them from taking his friend away.
Zhao said he lost his shoes in the process and left the protest barefoot.
He also said the protesters yelled slogans, including “Xi Jinping, step down; Communist Party, step down”, “Unlock Xinjiang, unlock China”, “do not want PCR [tests], want freedom” and “press freedom”. | <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/11/27/protests-in-shanghai-as-anger-over-zero-covid-spreads-in-china">Al Jazeera</a>

Chinese Citizens Protest Against "Zero-COVID" Policy

China has refuted claims it opened and operates police stations in Nigeria and other countries where its nationals work and reside.
This follows a recent report by a rights organization, Safeguard Defenders, titled “110 Overseas Chinese Transnational Policing Gone Wild” which claimed that the Chinese government established a police station in Nigeria.
However, in an exclusive interview with the Nigerian publication, <a href="https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/10/china-opens-police-station-in-nigeria/">Vanguard</a> on Wednesday, a top Chinese official who spoke on condition of anonymity dispelled the report.
The official said diplomatic relations cannot allow any government to open police posts in another sovereign country outside its borders. Said the official:
<blockquote>
There is no such station in Nigeria or everywhere. This is because no sovereign country may allow other countries to establish their own (police) stations on their territory. Isn’t this common sense?
</blockquote>
The Chinese official, however, revealed that there are outreach programs in countries where Chinese residents live to assist and protect them from terrorism, abduction, and other crimes that could risk their lives. He said:
<blockquote>
Also, there is only one category of outreach services for Chinese communities, therefore China has no intention or spare energy to run police stations outside its borders.
You know in Nigeria, there are a lot of insecurity issues happening almost every day. I cannot remember, maybe September or August or July or June, there were terrorists, bandits, they had kidnapped a lot of innocent persons, and also among these innocent persons, there were some Chinese nationals.
</blockquote>
Another Chinese official said what they can only do is help assist Chinese nationals without violating Nigerian sovereignty. He said:
<blockquote>
What I mean (by the outreach services) is that every nation has its mission to care for and help its own nationals.
So they have no right, they have no power to decide or command the Nigerian government or police forces, what they can only do is assist or play the outside role to help the Chinese nationals.
So the fundamental reason or factor is the locals and the Nigerian government, so we fully respect the sovereignty issue.
So there is no sovereignty issue, so the report ( Safeguard Defenders’ ‘110 Overseas Chinese Transnational Policing Gone Wild’) is fake news.
</blockquote>

China Rejects Report Of Running Police Station In Nigeria

Opposition politician Linda Masarira has urged the government to ban the importation of Chinese-made buses by schools, saying they are sub-standard are therefore prone to fatal crashes.
Masarira said American-made buses are safer for schools as they have been developed over the years for that purpose.
This comes after a Higer Bus, made by Higer Bus Company Limited, a Chinese bus manufacturer, was involved in an accident on Friday night in Nyanga resulting in the death of six pupils from Tynwald High School in Harare who were on a trip. Tweeted Masarira:
<blockquote>
The nation is mourning the preventable death of school children because we don’t value the importance of standards. 
This is the greatest difference between Africa and the Developed world. We just do things haphazardly without any standards. When we get pain it hits us hard.
The pain the nation is feeling could have been avoided had we upheld standards.
What is the best standard of the school bus in Zim? Why do all American schools use one bus type when they can afford other expensive elaborate types?
We need to emulate best safety practices! Zimbabwe should stop buying these cheap, useless Chinese buses for schools that have no regard for safety.
Our national vehicle stock will cause more deaths until we understand that we need to do things by standard to ensure the safety of all road users.
The American school bus is yellow (all of them are yellow because yellow is the first colour a human eye can see).
In Zim, any school will paint their bus anyhow. The American school bus is one of the safest vehicles on the road.
The way the body is built is different from these cheap buses. It has been in development for decades.
We need to prioritize the safety of all school-going children by ensuring that they have standard buses which are safe in the case of accidents.
</blockquote>

Masarira Urges Govt To Ban Chinese Buses From Schools

Hundreds of ZANU PF supporters in Chegutu East who are facing potential displacement have threatened to withdraw support from President Emmerson Mnangagwa in the general elections scheduled for 2023.
About 300 families who were allocated land in Chegutu may be displaced to make way for a proposed platinum mine for a Chinese firm.
The majority of the plot holders are retired civil servants who depend on small-scale farming.
The disgruntled villagers held a meeting at Hopewell farm in Chegutu where they blamed Mnangagwa for their possible displacement. One of the villagers said:
<blockquote>
Even he (President Emmerson Mnangagwa) if we are evicted, the election is coming, who will vote for him, how will he win the election?
Will the Chinese vote for him? Will one person make him win? They cannot support one corrupt person at the expense of hundreds.
We fought for this land, and you cannot tell us to leave, where do you want us to go as old as we are?
Hurumende ngaiticherechedzewo, murombo haavigwi ari mupenyu munotoumirira kuti afe.
We suffered for this land and our pain cannot go in vain because of one person.
</blockquote>
Another plot holder who spoke during the meeting expressed dismay over the development. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, we fought the whites and they left, now fellow blacks are fighting us, we cannot be fighting each other.
</blockquote>
Thousands of Zimbabweans across the country have been displaced to make way for big business as the “Second Republic” apparently shows scant regard for local people’s right to land.

Mashonaland West Villagers Threaten To Withdraw Support From ED

Approximately 300 families in Chegutu East Constituency are facing potential eviction from their plots to pave way for a proposed platinum project by a Chinese firm, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/300-chegutu-families-face-eviction-by-chinese-mining-project-linked-to-retired-generals-villagers-vow-to-fight-removal/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> reported.
Villagers say the Chinese company is working with a local company linked to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF).
They believe influential retired military generals, with the blessing of two government ministers, are using their political connections to effect the evictions.
One of the plot holders who spoke to NewZimbabwe.com vowed to fight for their land. He said:
<blockquote>
Platinum is drilled from 600 metres to 1000 metres depth, so, it does not affect us as farmers.
This is just a way to take our land under the guise of platinum mining; this is a typical case of powerful people who just want to chase us away.
</blockquote>
Another community member said they have nowhere to go and that they cannot leave their homes and graves. He said:
<blockquote>
Our President (Emmerson Mnangagwa) said the land reform programme is not reversible and no one must be displaced but here four farms are about to be seized by a few people.
We know them; they are retired generals, and they are working together with the Chinese company.
What will happen to us and our loved ones’ graves?
We have been here for so many years; where do you want us to go? What does our culture say about this?
We cannot be removed from our ancestral land by fellow black people simply because they have money.
</blockquote>
The majority of the people are retired civil servants who were allocated their plots by the government.

300 Chegutu Families Face Eviction By Chinese Mining Project

A 60-year-old Chinese man who was working at a mine in Inyathi under Bubi District, Matabeleland North province, was killed by a group of men believed to be illegal gold panners.
Jianhua Liu reportedly had a heated argument with the illegal gold panners at his workplace at around 9 PM on Sunday last week.
The men reportedly attacked him with an iron bar leaving him with a swollen head and bruises on the neck, chest and hands.
The illegal gold panners allegedly robbed Jianhua of an undisclosed amount of cash.
His condition deteriorated and he was ferried to Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo for medical attention and was admitted to intensive care.
Jianhua’s chest was swollen and he was operated on but passed away the following day.
Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson in Bulawayo ProvinceInspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the incident and said they were carrying out investigations to arrest the suspects. He said:
<blockquote>
Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects can contact any nearest police station or call us on 2922-60358.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.bmetro.co.zw/chinese-man-attacked-killed/">B-Metro</a>

Chinese Man Attacked, Killed In Zimbabwe

Local civic groups have urged the government to get tough on Chinese mining companies which allegedly continue to violate labour laws, including assaulting their employees.
A joint statement issued by the Solidarity Centre, Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition, Domestic Workers’ Association of Zimbabwe, African End Sexual Harassment Initiative, Zimbabwe Domestic and Allied Workers’ Union reads in part:
<blockquote>
While Chinese investors have opened up avenues for employment creation, they also brought an increase in labour violations, including physical assault of black labour by Chinese nationals.
Government must obtain binding commitments from Chinese investors to respect human rights, including labour rights, as a condition of any investment agreement and exercise such rights under these agreements to ensure full compliance.
</blockquote>
However, in response, the Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe, Guo Shaochun said the majority of Chinese employers enjoy good working relations with their Zimbabwean workers. He said:
<blockquote>
Most Chinese employers keep good relationships with local workers.
The embassy’s position is clear that all Chinese companies are encouraged to do more for local people and must comply with the laws, regulations, culture and customs of the host country.
Wrongdoers must be held accountable.
</blockquote>
China has become one of Africa’s biggest sources of investment, but Chinese nationals have been accused of violating workers’ rights not only in Zimbabwe but across the continent.
More: <a href="https://thestandard.newsday.co.zw/2022/08/21/groups-want-chinese-penalised/">The Standard</a>

Civic Groups Want Errant Chinese Companies Penalised

Chinese chrome smelters in Gweru’s light industrial areas are causing massive damage to the Midlands capital’s road infrastructure.
Trucks transporting chrome ore to Chinese chrome smelters routinely violate Gweru City Council’s load limits leading to damage on the city’s roads.
Speaking in an interview with The Standard, Trust Chinini, the Gweru City Council’s environment, works and town planning committee chairperson, said:
<blockquote>
The by-laws for Gweru say that the maximum tonnage for trucks that use roads in the (central business district) and those that lead to residential areas is seven tonnes.
There are clear signposts on the roads, which carry this information to road users.
However, the Chinese are using trucks with loads of between 20 to 30 tonnes. It is a cause for concern.
As the environment committee, we have talked about this at our caucus meetings. These are not documented.
However, we are planning to come up with a way forward so that there is a resolution on that matter. We want them to repair the roads.
</blockquote>
Chinini said Gweru City Council had previously repaired the damaged roads, only for the Chinese companies to damage them in a few days. He added:
<blockquote>
The problem is that if we repair the roads today, in a few days’ time they will have been damaged again.
We are worried as Gweru because of the conduct of Chinese companies on our roads.
The worst affected road is the one that comes from Shurugwi going up to Bristol Road leading to their smelting companies.
</blockquote>
Gweru Residents and Rate Payers Association director Cornellia Selipiwe said:
<blockquote>
There are so many roads that have been damaged by the Chinese trucks in Gweru.
We are worried as residents that money, which must go towards service delivery like water supplies, sewer reticulation and collection of garbage, will now be gobbled by rehabilitation of the roads.
Our water pumping plant at Gwenhoro Dam needs major refurbishments and that huge amount of money now going towards repairs of roads damaged by the Chinese could have been used there seeing that council has financial constraints.
</blockquote>
Gweru City Council spokesperson Vimbai Chingwaramuse said the local authority will spend millions repairing the roads damaged by the Chinese. She said:
<blockquote>
This year we have a budget of $169 million to deal with the menace.
So this comes at a huge cost, thus affecting service delivery greatly.
She said the local authority had resolved to stop absorbing the cost of repairing the damaged roads and the Chinese companies would in future be forced to pick up the bill.
We are going to invoke sections of the Town Planning Act to ensure that they repair and adopt the roads for maintenance.
It’s mainly the roads that lead to the light industries.
</blockquote>
Kudakwashe Titus Chitakure, a human resources officer for Xi Yu (one of the Chinese chrome smelters) who is based in Gweru, said they were not allowed to talk to journalists.
<h4>More: <a href="https://thestandard.newsday.co.zw/2022/05/08/chinese-chrome-smelters-wreak-havoc-on-gwerus-roads/">The Standard</a></h4>

Chinese Chrome Smelters Destroy Gweru’s Roads

Villagers in Mutoko District face an uncertain future amid reports that Chinese mining companies intend to mine granite in their area.
One of the Chinese companies exploring quarry mining in the region, Jinding Mining, reportedly informed the villagers that they will have to leave their homes. The company, however, denies plans to evict the villagers.
A 42-year-old farmer, who asked that his name be withheld, told VOA News that the company plans to mine an area that stretches across 180 hectares and includes some of their homes. He said:
<blockquote>
The area they want is where we live and where our cattle graze. It’s our source of income. 
We wonder where we will go, the area they want is too huge.
Our ancestors’ graves are there, too. We wonder where they will relocate them.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA)’s Richard Ncube said they are planning to educate communities on environmental issues and are ready to approach the courts to prevent the eviction of villagers. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
ln order to help the communities, we are raising awareness on environmental issues.
We are researching these issues in order to inform legal reform and then we take matters to court as a last resort to have their remedies addressed or issues addressed.
</blockquote>
Amkela Sidange from Zimbabwe’s Environmental Management Agency (EMA) said an environmental impact report by Jinding Mining has addressed the concerns of villagers. Said Sidange:
<blockquote>
What we only do as the agency is to take the project that is brought by the project owner, we go through it, we verify whether what is being indicated in the report that consultations were done, were really done.
We actually go to the ground and triangulate to check if what is in the report is what actually took place on the ground.
</blockquote>
The farmer who spoke to VOA News said the Chinese company only talked to local leaders without involving ordinary people to hear their concerns.
Recently the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe insisted that Chinese investors in Zimbabwe are working for the good of the country.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mutoko-villagers-fear-being-evicted-to-make-way-for-chinese-mining-company/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Mutoko Villagers Fear Eviction To Make Way For Chinese Miner

A Chinese miner, Edsabri (Private) Limited, faces arrest after invading Inyorka ranch in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province.
The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) working with the provincial mining office and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have ordered the company to leave the ranch, owned by Philip Mpofu.
In spite of being issued with tickets and orders twice, the group continued mining illegally and they did not have an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Report.
Speaking during an interview with CITE, EMA Matabeleland South Provincial Manager, Davy Ndlovu, said:
<blockquote>
The first time we found them doing alluvial mining on a river bed, we removed them and issued a ticket.
They then moved to the next site where they bought a mine illegally to continue their operations.
We also gave them a ticket and an order. The next move is to go with the police and arrest them.
The first ticket fine was for ZWL$500 000 and the second one was for ZWL$20 000 where they were doing prospecting.
Now we will open a docket and have them arrested because we understand they are back again.
When you tell someone to stop mining you expect them to stop but they have not, meaning they are disrespecting our procedures.
They must stop their illegal activities and they don’t even have an EIA.
</blockquote>
Ministry of Mines and Mining Development Matabeleland South Provincial Mining Director Khumbulani Mlangeni confirmed the matter when contacted for a comment by CITE. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, we wrote a letter to the police to that effect. When we received the complaint we went to the ground and we established they are not supposed to be mining anywhere.
They (the Chinese) claim to have applied for a special grant and they were mining within a river bed, which is banned nationally.
So we wrote a letter to the police at the time we received the complaint last year. I’m not sure if the police have acted yet but this morning Mr Mpofu said there are still people there.
</blockquote>
The owner of the ranch, Mpofu, want the Chinese to move out of his property, as they are causing environmental degradation.
<h4>More: <a href="https://cite.org.zw/chinese-miner-invades-matobo-ranch/">CITE</a></h4>

Chinese Miner Invades Matobo Ranch, Defies EMA & Mines Ministry Officials

Workers at Sinohydro Corporation which is working on stage 7 and 8 expansion project at Hwange Thermal Power Station have called for an end to the harassment and ill-treatment they are suffering at the hands of the Chinese contractors.
Over 1 000 workers from Sinohydro and its subcontractors have from Wednesday been staging a sit out protesting low salaries, poor working conditions and lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
In 2020 the company came under the spotlight after reports of abuse of workers which involved locking them up and restricting their movements, feeding them substandard food, physical and verbal assaults surfaced.
The Chinese firm was also accused of violation of labour laws and human rights abuses after dismissing workers without following procedures.
However, the company justified its actions, saying it needed to keep its workforce at the workplace to minimize the spread of the coronavirus.
The workers aired their grievances during a feedback meeting with Zimbabwe Construction Workers Union secretary-general, Nicholas Mazarura on Friday. One of the workers said:
<blockquote>
We want to find out if the issue we raised of abuse of workers by the Chinese was addressed.
On a daily basis, we are subjected to inhumane treatment which includes insults and physical abuse.
Can you imagine that it’s dangerous to be seen standing or taking a break by our Chinese supervisors as you are likely to get a harsh reprimand? Sometimes you can be assaulted or fired on the spot.
The irony of it all is that these people are allowed to treat us like this but if a person reacts in defence it’s considered an offence that can land you in jail. They are more at home than us the owners of the land.
</blockquote>
Another worker said they had on several occasions notified officials from the ministry of labour and management through their workers’ committee of their grievances but no action was taken. The worker, who identified himself as Sam, said:
<blockquote>
The guys from labour are aware of these abuses so is management which includes ZPC but nothing has been done about it.
At one point we protested strongly against moves by management to hole us up for months on end under the veil of COVID-19.
Unfortunately, we failed to get redress as they used a divide and rule strategy where workers were threatened with dismissal.
So for 3 months, we were caged like prisoners going through ill-treatment all in the name of securing our jobs and completing the project.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the company has engaged the workers promising them to address their grievances as it moved to avert further delays to the completion of the billion-dollar electricity project.
<h4>More: <a href="https://cite.org.zw/sinohydro-workers-call-for-end-to-abuse-by-chinese-contractors/">CITE</a></h4>

Sinohydro Workers Demand An End To Abuse By Chinese Contractors

Villagers from around SAS Mine, Lowdale, under Mazowe Rural District Council, where two gas explosions killed eight people on Wednesday and Thursday expressed joy following the death of six Chinese nationals who were managers at the site.
The villagers told NewZimbabwe.com that the late Chinese managers were stubborn and very disrespectful and ill-treated locals.
Two of the victims were Zimbabweans and one of them, a 21-year-old man who was the only casualty in the first blast on Wednesday, was burnt beyond recognition.
The government on Friday sealed off the nickel mine pending investigations.
Mazowe South Ward 2 councillor, Tapera Tapererwa said the Chinese managers had been told to halt all operations after the first explosion on Wednesday that claimed the life of a worker.
However, the Chinese miners defied the order and smuggled workers through a broken fence.
They also threatened to take unspecified action against any worker who had raised concerns over their personal safety.
A worker at the mine, Anyway Teru, said the Chinese managers did not show any remorse over the death of the first victim on Wednesday. He said:
<blockquote>
The Chinese eventually accepted that there was danger at the mine after the deaths of their own.
After the death of one of our own, they dismissed the matter and demanded that everyone gets back to work despite being told the situation was still dangerous.
They should have given family and colleagues of the dead worker, time to mourn, but because he was not one of them they did not care.
We mourn the death of our colleague, not that of the Chinese. I hope this will make them reconsider some of their decisions.
</blockquote>
Shift supervisor Benjamin Hove, one of the workers who declined to report for duty on the fateful day, said ten gas cylinders exploded in the two days as they were leaking. Hove said:
<blockquote>
We informed the managers and one of them who is now late told us to simply close the valves and offload the cylinders.
… I indicated to them and my manager just told me to close the caps. Our employers were not doing anything to protect us. We were not even given gloves.
They could not even adhere to procedures after the death of one of us Wednesday. They had been told not to use these cylinders but proceeded to use them Thursday.
</blockquote>
The local councillor, Tapererwa said the Chinese managers at one time hid the faulty gas cylinders from Council officials when they visited to investigate the first explosion Wednesday. He said:
<blockquote>
They are not doing anything to ensure the safety of employees. They are buying cheap products and putting workers’ lives in danger.
When we came, they told us they had ordered 10 cylinders, but provided three for analysis, they then proceeded to hide others which we had demanded. They did not even have a first aid kit.
I do not dispute that they have no care, but what could be happening is also a case of miscommunication because these people do not speak Shona or English. We are relying on interpreters for communication.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/shock-as-villagers-celebrate-death-of-6-chinese-at-mazowe-mine/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Mazowe Villagers Celebrate Deaths Of 6 Chinese In Mine Blast

Authorities at SAS Mine, Lowdale, under Mazowe Rural District Council, defied an order by government officials to temporarily close the mine to allow investigations after a blast killed a worker on Wednesday.
The defiance resulted in another blast the following day leading to the death of six Chinese nationals and another Zimbabwean after some gas cylinders exploded.
Mines and Mining Development Deputy Minister, Polite Kambamura, who visited the site with Mazowe South Member of Parliament Fortune Chasi and other Ministry of Mines officials, said:
<blockquote>
Unfortunately, the mine management defied that order [to cease operations temoprarily] and continued to work leading to the loss of more lives on Thursday.
</blockquote>
Two separate blasts rocked the mine, the first one on Wednesday, killing one, and another blast occurred on Thursday, resulting in the death of six Chinese nationals and one Zimbabwe, bringing the total fatalities to eight. One of the victims was burnt beyond recognition.
Chasi said according to reports, a 21-year-old man died on Wednesday at the mine after an oxygen tank he was trying to open exploded.
One of the workers who witnessed both incidents and asked for anonymity for fear of victimisation told State media that the first victim who died was a youth who had just started work a few months ago. He said:
<blockquote>
He had just married and his wife is pregnant. He went near the blast furnace around 6 pm and in line with his everyday duties, he tried to open a gas bottle and it then exploded.
We heard a loud sound and we are still in shock. We just saw some body parts strewn all over the place.
It was quite scary for those of a nervous disposition as all his body parts were contained in a plastic bag.
</blockquote>
Another worker said the death of the seven occurred the following day in almost a similar manner. Said the worker:
<blockquote>
Unfortunately on this fateful day, most workers including myself were defying orders to work. We were still traumatised by the death of our colleague the previous day.
However, as fate would have it, some insisted that they wanted to go inside and work. Around 7 pm while workers were changing shifts, we heard an unusual loud bang. Little did we know that more colleagues had perished.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi yesterday confirmed the deaths saying:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating the circumstances in which six foreign nationals, as well as two Zimbabweans, died after some gas cylinders exploded at SAS Mine, Lowdale on October 7, 2021.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/eight-die-in-mine-blasts/">Chronicle</a></h4>

Mine Blasts: Management Defied Govt Order To Suspend Operations

A Chinese businessman has dragged Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister, Kazembe Kazembe to court after the latter failed to evict suspected war veterans who invaded his property in 2019.
The businessman, Xifeng Li is suing Kazembe jointly with Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga, Officer Commanding Harare province, Officer commanding Mbare district, Officer in Charge Southlea Park and Sheriff for Zimbabwe.
Li made an application at the High Court seeking an order compelling the respondents to provide security services to the Sheriff to eject some war veterans who have settled in his land.
The businessman approached the court on 28 August 2019 where an interdict was granted against the war veterans barring them from taking or occupying his land.
The land in dispute is in Stoneridge, Waterfalls measuring 20 2321 hectares.
Li deposed an affidavit through Innocent Taru. It reads in part:
<blockquote>Contrary to the import and essence of the consent order, the respondents, together with their invitees proceeded to unlawfully enter the land and apportion the same among themselves.
They also started constructing illegal structures in breach of Town and Country Planning laws as well as the Environmental Management Act, among other provisions of the law.
Their settlement, besides being an illegality, posed a time bomb from a public health perspective.</blockquote>
The development prompted Li to institute proceedings for eviction of the settlers and demolition of their illegal structures.
In October 2020, the court again granted an order for the eviction of the alleged war veterans prompting Li and his lawyers to instruct the Sheriff to execute the court order.
The sheriff told the businessman he could not do the execution without security from the police but that has allegedly been denied by the respondents.
Li said it became necessary for him to approach the court seeking an order to compel the ZRP to provide security personnel to the sheriff for him to perform his mandate.
The matter is yet to be heard.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chinese-businessman-confronts-kazembe-for-failing-to-protect-him/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Chinese Businessman Sues Kazembe For Failing To Protect Him

About 150 workers at Diamond Cement, a Chinese run company near Kwekwe have reportedly been forcibly separated from their families for the past five months by the company.
The company management allegedly made the decision because they fear that if the workers go home, they will bring back the coronavirus.
The workers are reportedly living in squalid conditions and are being made to sleep in cargo containers.
The workers recently petitioned the company management to be allowed to go and see their families but they were reportedly told that anyone who leaves the company will not come back.
Diamond Cement spokesperson George Makonese told Masvingo Mirror that the workers were not forced to stay at the company’s premises but did so voluntarily. He said:
<blockquote>Yes, we have employees staying at the plant but they signed indemnity forms. No one was forced to stay at the plant.
However, if one leaves, there is a process by which one will come back because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is true that the workers had a meeting with the Managing Director over the issue recently and everything was resolved.</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) secretary-general Japhet Moyo said it was unfair for companies to keep workers at the workplace for more than two weeks.
Moyo said he will send a delegation to go and look into the matter.
<h4>More: <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/covid-19-workers-locked-at-chinese-mine-for-5-months/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Masvingo Mirror</a></h4>

Chinese-owned Firm Locks Zimbabwean Workers For 5 Months

<blockquote>The revolutionary and pan African ZANU PF Youth League strongly condemns the callous shooting of Comrades Wendy Chikwaira (31) and Kennedy Tachiona (39) by a Chinese national, one Zhang Xuen (a general manager) following a wage dispute at Reeden Mine located some 25 kilometres out of Gweru.
The Youth League is deeply concerned and perplexed with this flagrant disregard of existing dispute resolution mechanisms encapsulated in Zimbabwe’s labour laws in preference of barbaric law of the jungle tactics.
The ZANU PF Youth League continues to stand with the toiling indigenes of Zimbabwe and we express our utter shock, dismay and grief at Zhang Xuen’s murderous actions which not only threaten the peace, progress and stability that characterises the Second Republic but actions which also risk being misinterpreted in the context of the bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and its all-weather friend China.
We welcome in this regard the statement issued by the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe wherein the Embassy said it would firmly “…support Zimbabwe’s law enforcement authority agencies to transparently and openly investigate and handle the case in accordance with the law of Zimbabwe.”
We vehemently condemn such callous acts that seek to destabilise the harmonious working relationships of people of all races.
Zimbabwe is a civilized progressive democratic nation and our Youth League is deeply perturbed by such an inhuman act.
It is our fervent hope that the law will speedily take its course and remind all employers (domestic and foreign) that workers have rights too.
Accordingly, we encourage the courts as well as mining regulation authorities to send an urgent and strong warning to those who dare take advantage of the humility of Zimbabweans by turning the mining sector into a wild-wild west where laws are senselessly flouted in pursuit of personal gain and greediness.  Such criminal and heartless acts have no place in a progressive and democratic Zimbabwe.
The ZANU PF Youth League also takes this opportunity to strongly condemn all forms of abuse and ill-treatment of workers in all sectors of the economy.
The ZANU PF Constitution in Article 2 clearly states the aims and objectives of ZANU PF as including “To uphold and fully apply fully the rule of equality before the law and equality of opportunities for all the people in Zimbabwe, regardless of race, tribe, sex, religion or origins.”
Defending the weak employee is thus in the DNA of the Youth League and we will not hesitate to perform our constitutional duty in this regard.
Furthermore, Article, 2 (12) of the ZANU PF Constitution clearly espouses and articulates ZANU PF’s negative stance towards all social ills including “…tribalism, regionalism, nepotism, racism, religious fanaticism, xenophobia and related intolerance, discrimination on the grounds of sex and all forms of exploitation of man by man in Zimbabwe…”
In the same vein, the revolutionary ZANU PF Youth League aims and objectives as stipulated in section 186 (1-3) of the ZANU PF Constitution clearly state that it is the duty of the youths to actively participate in the political, social, cultural and economic affairs of the country and to promote and protect the interests of the youths.
It must be noted in this regard that the ZANU PF Youth League’s interest arises not only from the fact that the victims of the shooting are Zimbabweans but equally that one of the victims is a youth as defined in the African Youth Charter and the ZANU PF Constitution.
We are as the youth duty-bound by the afore-mentioned constitution to defend the interests of these two unfortunate comrades in all aspects of their socio-cultural, political and economic endeavour.
It must be reiterated that Mr Zhang Xuen’s cold-hearted trigger happy and barbaric act is an affront upon the peace-loving and hardworking people of Zimbabwe and a law-breaking act against the sovereign people of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
The Youth League will studiously monitor the progress of this case and we encourage all employers and employees to abide by the law in all their labour relations as a means to foster and perpetuate order in our economy.
The ZANU PF Youth League will continue to stand in support and defence of all the hardworking youths of Zimbabwe.</blockquote>

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