mmegi

Illegal gold miners employ new tricks

Tuesday, August 22, 2023 | 5750 Views |

Rising menace: Illegal gold mining is rife in Francistown, where the precious metal was first discovered in the 1800s

FRANCISTOWN: Police in Matsiloje say they have noticed a new trend where illegal gold miners (popularly known as zama zamas) in Matsiloje are now using metal detectors to dig virgin land in search of gold, as opposed to their usual tactic of targeting disused mining areas.

Illegal gold mining has been a source of concern to police in Matsiloje village for some time. Matsiloje is home to several old mines and deposits that ceased operations decades ago. The village is situated along the Zimbabwean border, from where the majority of the illegal gold miners originate.

So severe is the invasion of illegal gold miners in the area that police are arresting up to three per week, while cases constantly feature in the courts.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

gold mine

Striding back: Kutlwano volleyball women’s team PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE

Kutlwano targets league title

Calistus Kolantsho | 2d ago

GU Stadium bears the brunt of venue shortages

Mqondisi Dube | 2d ago

Boko’s unfinished media battle

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | 2d ago

Can Chiefs compound Rollers’ problems?

Boitumelo Khutsafalo | 2d ago

Remembering Mma Stompi

Sharon Mathala | 2d ago

Fare thee well Onty

Staff Writer | 2d ago

I don't have a lawyer yet -Seretse

Larona Makhaiza | 12 Mar 2026

The Makhenes Are Coming to Mzansi Magic

correspondent | 09 Mar 2026

Let's show compassion to baby Asli

Her story is heartbreaking not only because she is fighting for her life at such a tender age, but because her parents have spent months navigating a medical journey filled with uncertainty, delays, and rising fear.What began as something that seemed as simple as jaundice has escalated into a life-threatening condition that now requires an urgent liver transplant.For Asli’s parents, the reality is devastating. They are not asking for luxuries...

Mmegi Editor | 06 March 2026

About us

Mmegi is the leading independent source of breaking news, latest news, current
affairs, Politics, Business, Sport, debates, analysis, and entertainment news in Botswana.

Explore

More