By Staff Reporter
A mining company in Guruve, owned by a Chinese entity, has been fined USD700 for violating the Posta and Telecommunications Act due to its use of Star-Link equipment.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPA) revealed that the infractions of SAN HE Mining company came to light on December 5th, 2023, following a report from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PORTRAZ).
The Bindura Magistrate imposed a USD700 fine on SAN HE Mining for willfully possessing and operating a radio station without the required license or authorization from PORTRAZ, as dictated by the Postal and Telecommunications Act.
A statement from the NPA indicated, “On December 5th, 2023, the Police received a report from PORTRAZ stating that the company was utilizing Star-Link equipment. Subsequently, the police conducted an investigation at the mine, where they seized the Star-Link router and antenna.”
The discovery prompted legal action against SAN HE Mining, culminating in the fine issued by the Bindura Magistrate. The Postal and Telecommunications Act of Zimbabwe mandates that entities engaging in radio communications must obtain proper authorization from PORTRAZ to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and prevent unauthorized usage.
Despite the lack of authorization, advertisements for Starlink kits have reportedly been surfacing on the internet, notably on social media platforms like Facebook.
A PORTRAZ official recently cautioned, “All individuals advertising these gadgets are putting themselves at risk and are advised to cease selling and using them. Starlink is still in the process of applying for a license.”
Starlink, a project by SpaceX, known for designing, manufacturing, and launching advanced rockets and spacecraft, is now available in over 60 countries.
