Rising tensions: Chinese nationals under fire for workplace gun incidents
The recent incident involving a Chinese national pointing a firearm at a Zimbabwean worker at Bijour Farm, Lower Gweru, has sparked widespread outrage and fear among Zimbabweans.
A video of the incident, which has gone viral on social media, has intensified concerns over the conduct of some Chinese nationals in Zimbabwe, particularly in mining and other industries. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has since issued a press statement confirming the investigation into the assault and firearm pointing incident that occurred on January 21, 2025.
The incident has reignited calls for stricter regulation of firearm ownership by foreigners in Zimbabwe. Adding to the public outcry, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Nick Mangwana, posted a tweet expressing his personal concerns:
“PERSONAL VIEW: In Zimbabwe we don’t have a culture of brandishing guns like some wannabe gangsters. We have a culture of responsible gun ownership. Let’s revisit the idea of foreigners owning firearms. I don’t believe Zimbabweans living in foreign countries can easily get firearms licenses there.”
Mangwana’s remarks have struck a chord with many Zimbabweans, who feel that the issue of foreign nationals, particularly Chinese, owning and using firearms irresponsibly has reached alarming levels. Social media has been flooded with comments echoing his sentiments, with users highlighting the perceived preferential treatment of foreigners over locals and the lack of stringent oversight on firearm licenses.
One user, Travel Guy, pointed out: “There’s no circumstance whatsoever whereby a Zimbabwean in China can take out a gun, fire in the air, point at someone, and walk out scot-free. If all these people coming in are getting firearm licenses, our army may have to be prepared to one day fight against them.”
Another commenter, Dr. Divine Simbi Ndhlukula, said: “These Chinese are a law unto themselves. They beat up workers, emotionally and verbally abuse them, and don’t want to pay wages. They don’t provide PPE in unsafe work environments and believe they can get away with it. Really SAD.”
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) press statement sheds light on the legal framework for firearm ownership in the country. Under Section 5(2) of the Firearms Act Chapter 10:09, firearm certificates are granted at the discretion of the Controller of Firearms based on factors such as the applicant’s character, security of the weapon, and the intended purpose of the firearm. For example, firearm ownership for crop or livestock protection requires proof of land ownership and letters of support from relevant authorities. Despite these stringent requirements, there are growing concerns that foreign nationals in mining and other sectors are bypassing these processes.
Shrek Forever, another social media user, highlighted this issue: “You are correct there. I have been in other nations, and they don’t issue firearms to foreign people. Sad again to notice that the Chinese guy said he was firing warning shots but with the gun directly pointed at the victim. We have given these Chinese too much freedom.”
Further amplifying the public’s concerns, another incident involving a Chinese national was reported at Binyup 5 Mine in Filabusi, where a Zimbabwean, Mtahandazo Sibanda (20), was shot with a 9mm Derya pistol while allegedly stealing gold dump. The ZRP confirmed the arrest of the Chinese national involved in this case. These incidents have fueled calls for an urgent review of firearm regulations, particularly for foreign nationals.
Mushavi Tino voiced their frustration: “Why do Chinese carry firearms at workplaces? It seems they value their property more than employees. To them, Zimbabweans are just obstacles against their plundering of our resources. Every day we hear about a firearm incident involving these Chinese.”
The overarching sentiment among Zimbabweans is that the government must prioritize its citizens’ welfare and safety. Liberty Gomwe called on authorities to take action: “The challenge we have as a country is that we love foreigners more than our brothers and sisters. Let’s put Zimbabwe first. We plead with you top government officials to make random visits to these mines and other worksites.”
The outrage over these incidents is not just about firearms but also reflects broader grievances over the treatment of Zimbabwean workers by some foreign nationals. Many have called for tighter monitoring and regulation of foreign-owned enterprises, particularly in the mining sector, to ensure compliance with labor laws and safety standards.
Nick Mangwana’s call for a review of firearm ownership by foreigners resonates with many Zimbabweans who feel that stricter measures are long overdue.
