Gang of Six Flees After US$16 500 Gold Carbon Theft
Six suspected thieves fled into the bush after their vehicle caught fire following a collision during a pursuit by a mine security guard and driver in Mberengwa. Police recovered the entire 150kg consignment of gold carbon, valued at US$16 500, from the burnt-out Honda Fit.
Delicious Mathuthu 
Mberengwa — Six suspected gold carbon thieves fled into the bush after the vehicle they were escaping in was rammed by a security vehicle and caught fire while they were being pursued in Zvishavane.
The incident occurred at Draw Mark 19 Mine in Mberengwa at around 1am on Sunday, August 30, 2026, with the suspects allegedly stealing about 150kgs of pregnant gold carbon worth US$16 500.
Zimbabwe Republic Police says the six suspects gained unlawful access to underground carbon tanks at the mine before fleeing in a white Honda Fit.
“A security guard who was conducting routine checks noticed a spoor leading from the mine to a white Honda Fit, which was parked approximately 100 metres away,” Midlands Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said.
The suspects allegedly drove away before the security guard and a mine driver pursued them in a Honda Shuttle.
The two vehicles later collided at the Old Bulawayo Road and Mimosa Road junction.
“The suspects' Honda Fit caught fire, resulting in six occupants abandoning the vehicle and fleeing into a nearby bush,” Inspector Mahoko said.
He said officers from ZRP Zvishavane Traffic and Minerals, and the Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit attended the scene following the crash.
Inspector Mahoko said the stolen gold carbon was recovered from the burnt-out Honda Fit.
The suspects' vehicle, registration number AFF 6232 and chassis number GD12393842, was extensively damaged by fire.
Police said investigations are continuing, with police appealing to members of the public who may have information that could assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects to report to any police station.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates its commitment to combating the theft and illegal trafficking of gold and other precious minerals,” Inspector Mahoko said.
