Botha Mine has announced the suspension of its general manager, Angela Mpofu-Chisvo, and confirmed that former chairperson, Themba Hlongwane, is no longer associated with the company. Both individuals face serious allegations of fraud and theft, involving substantial sums of money. The actions taken by the mine underscore a commitment to transparency and accountability, but also highlight a turbulent period for the Bindura-based operation.
The mine issued a statement this week outlining the accusations against Mpofu-Chisvo. The statement reads: “Botha Mine wishes to inform all stakeholders that Angela Mpofu-Chisvo is suspended from duty without pay or benefits from Botha Mine effective from the 6th of January 2025. She is currently facing serious criminal allegations of theft and fraud involving more than $300 000.00 United States Dollars and charges related to concealing a transaction from the principal. Investigations are underway under Bindura RRB 5874696.”
As a precautionary measure, Mpofu-Chisvo is barred from entering the mine premises. The mine has issued a stern warning to the community: “We would like to emphasise that any individual or entity engaging in transactions with her will be held liable for any repercussions arising from such dealings. The Bindura community to be specific is, therefore, warned from engaging in any monetary or any other transactions with Mrs. Mpofu on behalf of Botha Mine.”
The suspension of Mpofu-Chisvo follows allegations of theft, fraud, and concealing a transaction exceeding US$300,000. The case, currently under investigation, is referenced under Bindura RRB 5874696. The mine’s statement confirms that Mpofu-Chisvo’s suspension is without pay or benefits, and she is prohibited from accessing company premises or conducting business on behalf of Botha Mine.
The announcement regarding Mpofu-Chisvo’s suspension came alongside confirmation that Themba Hlongwane, the former chairperson, is no longer affiliated with Botha Mine in any capacity. The statement explains: “We would like to categorically confirm that Hlongwane is no longer part of Botha Mine in any capacity and is currently facing serious criminal charges at various courts in the country.”
The statement details several criminal cases against Hlongwane, including fraud and theft charges under various case numbers: Bindura Police (1)RRB 5874696, (2)CR104/07/24, (3)RRB5874661, (4)CR130/01/24, with others pending. He also faces a kidnapping charge under case number Bindura Police RRB 6191451. As a result of these allegations, Hlongwane is also barred from all Botha Mine premises.
The mine’s statement emphatically refutes any suggestion that Hlongwane has legal recourse against the company: “We would like to emphasize that Hlongwane has not won any legal cases against Botha Mine to date and has no individual appeal before the Supreme Court. Anyone who gets involved in any transactions with Mr Hlongwane on behalf of Botha Mine will be liable to losses incurred. The Bindura Community to be specific is therefore warned from engaging in any monetary or any other transactions with Mr Hlongwane on behalf of Botha Mine.”
The mine’s actions are presented as a commitment to upholding high standards of integrity and transparency. Botha Mine assures stakeholders of its full cooperation with authorities throughout the ongoing investigations. The statement concludes: “Any further developments regarding the case or disciplinary proceedings will be communicated in due course.”
In the wake of these developments, Leonard Rwambiwa has assumed the role of Interim Chairperson for Botha Mine. The situation remains fluid, with the investigations into both Mpofu-Chisvo and Hlongwane continuing. The outcome of these investigations will significantly impact the future of Botha Mine and its operations in Bindura.
