A storm of outrage is brewing in Zimbabwe after a video emerged showing a Chinese national brutally torturing local miners at Makanga Mine in Bindura. The video, which has since gone viral on social media, shows the unnamed Chinese manager tying up Zimbabwean workers and hoisting them in the air on a front loader bucket, all while wielding a whip and inflicting pain in the presence of their stunned colleagues.
The incident, which is believed to have occurred recently, has sparked widespread condemnation from across the country, with calls for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrator. The video, which has been shared widely on social media platforms, has ignited a firestorm of anger and indignation, highlighting the deep-seated resentment towards perceived mistreatment of local workers by foreign investors.
“The incident is a strong reminder of the exploitation and mistreatment of Zimbabwean workers by foreign investors, and the government’s failure to protect its citizens. We urge all citizens to share the video and join us in demanding justice for the affected worker,” reads a statement accompanying the video, which has been circulated by various social media groups and activist networks.
The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), a representative body for miners across the country, has issued a scathing condemnation of the incident, describing it as “appalling, vile, inhumane and savage.” The association has vowed to take a firm stance against such acts of cruelty and has called on the police to swiftly bring the perpetrator to justice.
“This barbaric act is a blatant violation of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which guarantees the right to personal security and freedom from torture or cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment,” reads a statement shared by ZMF. “We will not stand idly while our members are subjected to such egregious abuse. ZMF vehemently condemns this despicable act and demands immediate arrest and prosecution of the Chinese boss responsible, thorough investigation into the mine’s labour practices and swift action against any violations.”
The incident at Makanga Mine is not an isolated case. Earlier this year, another Chinese miner, Cai Yulong, shot and killed a local man in Gokwe, injuring another in the same incident. While this case received significant media attention, it is just one example of a pattern of abuse and violence perpetrated by some Chinese nationals against local Zimbabweans, often working in the mining sector.
Over the years, there have been numerous reports of similar incidents, some of which have been swept under the carpet, leaving victims without justice and perpetuating a culture of impunity. This latest incident, however, has brought the issue to the forefront of public discourse, prompting widespread calls for accountability and a reassessment of the relationship between Chinese investors and local communities.
While Chinese investment has played a significant role in Zimbabwe’s economic development, the incidents of abuse and exploitation continue to cast a shadow over this partnership. The government has been criticised for its lack of action in addressing these concerns, with many accusing it of turning a blind eye to the plight of local workers in favour of maintaining good relations with Chinese investors.
The video of the torture at Makanga Mine has sparked a national conversation about the need for stronger labour laws and regulations to protect workers from exploitation and abuse, regardless of their nationality. It has also highlighted the importance of ensuring that foreign investors adhere to ethical standards and respect the human rights of their employees.
