Former Gweru Zanu PF Councillor Strikes Again After 90-Tonne Gold Heist, Lands Back in Custody

Former Zanu PF Councillor Charles Simbi, from Gweru Urban Ward 12, is once again in police custody. He was previously arrested for stealing 90 tonnes of gold ore from Tsvangirai. This time, he has been arrested for allegedly forging land ownership papers in an attempt to seize a mine.

Simbi Accused of Forging Papers to Take Control of Kanuck Farm

Charles is reportedly trying to gain control of Kanuck Farm, located along the Gweru-Shurugwi road, after the discovery of substantial gold samples on the property. Simbi was released into the custody of his lawyer, Wellington Davira, while the police continue their investigation into the matter following his arrest on May 7.

“Police and the prosecution will proceed by way of summons when they are ready to charge him. He insists on his innocence, of course,” stated Davira.

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Alleged Use of Wife to Forge Land Ownership Papers

Simbi allegedly had his wife forge an offer letter for the 10-hectare plot with gold. However, legally, Melvin Van Gopal owns the disputed land. ZimLive obtained documents showing a dispute between Simbi, his wife, Tsvangirai, and Paradza. Paradza and Tsvangirai’s New Generation Mining Syndicate rightfully own the contested claims.

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Former Gweru Urban Ward 12 Councillor’s Involvement in Mining Activities

In 2022, Simbi mined Pretty Polly 33 Mine with authorization from Casper Tsvangirai. However, he left due to poor gold samples. Later, Simbi partnered with Paradza, forming the New Generation Mining Syndicate, which made major gold discoveries. They registered nine claims spanning nine hectares. Upon learning of the discoveries, Simbi allegedly attempted to encroach on the syndicate’s territory but was ordered to retreat by the Ministry of Mines.

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Additional Pending Cases

Simbi, along with accomplices, is also facing a pending theft case at the Gweru Magistrate Courts. They are accused of stealing 90 tonnes of gold ore from Tsvangirai’s Pretty Polly 33 Mine in October of last year. In September of the same year, Tsvangirai’s daughter was allegedly stabbed and robbed of 55 grams of gold near the New Generation Mining Syndicate area.