The Russians have kept a tight lead on the mining operations at the former coffee producing farm and have already instructed the invaders to stop all farming activities.
“The Russians have told us to stop farming at Charleswood. We were surprised when they just started pegging our plots for gold and diamonds without consulting us. Most of us have built permanent structures at the farm and some even have livestock,” said a farmer who refused to be named for fear of victimisation.
The farmer said the affected plot holders had already taken the issue to the office of the district administrator.
“We have already engaged the DA over this issue. We removed Bennett because he is white. Now the same white people are chasing us from the land we fought for. Tell me what is the difference between these Russians and Bennett? Why are they being treated as special?” said another Zanu (PF) supporter.
The supporters accused senior Zanu (PF) officials of working in cahoots with the Russians. According to the Center for Research and Development, secret mining activities at Charleswood have been going on for more than a year now. The area is now highly protected by soldiers from all over the country. Policemen from Chipinge are amongst those who are guarding the area. When reached for comment, the district administrator for the area, Boore, denied the evictions but highly placed sources at the council confirmed them.
“These people are going to be resettled somewhere else. The government will compensate them and assist them with relocation. DTZ is expanding its perations and that is why these people are being evicted. As you know, all mining activities now take precedence over any economic activity in the country,” said a source.
Post published in: Business