(Rapaport…December 21, 2005) Zimbabwe’s deputy minister of mines and mining, Tinos Rusere, confirmed to the press that some $100 million in minerals, including diamonds, have been smuggled out from five mines in the region of Midlands Province. The target location for diamond smugglers has been South Africa, where they would then be shipped to international markets.
An investigation into the matter revealed diamond production, gold, and magnetize mines are involved in smuggling operations throughout 2005.
The Herald Business newspaper reports that investigations have led to big companies being involved in “similar, shady practices and investigations are underway at some mines.”
Zimbabwe holds deposits of diamonds, gold, nickel, chrome, and a reported platinum reserve, which is said to be one of the largest in the world.