THREE Zimbabwean men and a 16-year-old juvenile have been locked up in a Botswana prison for illegal mining. Kelvin Maposa (43), Matshidza Sibanda (33), Kholwani Sibanda (39) and the 16-year-old juvenile appeared at the Francistown Magistrates Court on Tuesday charged with illegal mining.
Their matter has been pushed to September 5, while they remain in custody. Reports from the neighbouring country yesterday said on or about July 26 at or near Rainbow Mine in Matsiloje, the four were found in possession of illegally mined mineral deposits.
Three of the accused were also charged with unlawful possession of unwrought precious metals. It is the State’s case that on the day, Phahlula Sibanda, the 16-year-old juvenile and Sibanda were found in possession of some stones suspected to be gold.
It is also the State case that on the third count, they are charged with entering Botswana through an illegal entry point. The State has also laid a charge of unlawful possession of explosives against another accused person, Khumbulani Dube.
Allegations against him are that Dube was found at the same place as the other four in possession of gels suspected to be explosives. He pleaded guilty to the charges. Thabiso Leinane from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions represented the State.
Source Southern eye
