According to reports, a Chinese mining company, San He Mining, located in Guruve, recently found itself embroiled in a legal dispute after being accused of contravening the Postal and Telecommunication Act. The Bindura Magistrate's Court sentenced the company to pay a fine of USD 700 for "willfully possessing and/or operating a radio station without a license or authorization from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ)."

The incident came to light on December 5th, 2023, when the police received a report from POTRAZ regarding San He Mining's usage of Star-Link equipment. Acting on the information provided, the police promptly proceeded to the mining site in question. Upon their arrival, they discovered and seized the Star-Link router and antenna.

The case raised concerns about the mining company's compliance with regulatory requirements and the unauthorized use of radio equipment. Operating a radio station without the necessary license or authorization is a violation of the Postal and Telecommunication Act, which is in place to ensure the proper management and regulation of communication systems in Zimbabwe.

The involvement of Star-Link equipment, a satellite-based internet service provider, added another dimension to the case. Star-Link has gained popularity worldwide for its high-speed internet connectivity, particularly in remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure is limited. However, its use in this context raised questions about the legality and authorization of such equipment within the mining industry.

The court's decision to impose a fine on San He Mining sends a clear message about the importance of adhering to regulations and obtaining the required licenses before operating any radio equipment. It serves as a reminder to businesses, both local and foreign, of the need to comply with the laws of the country in which they operate.

The case also highlights the role of regulatory bodies like POTRAZ in safeguarding the interests of the telecommunications sector and ensuring fair competition among service providers. By taking action against unauthorized usage of radio equipment, POTRAZ aims to maintain a level playing field and protect the integrity of the communication industry in Zimbabwe.