Sharon Chikowore
MHANGURA — Three artisanal miners lost their lives after the gold mining shaft they were working in collapsed during a gold rush at Pondorosa Farm in the Mpata area of Mhangura last Friday.
Mashonaland West Police Spokesperson, Inspector Ian Kohwera, said the now deceased men were part of a group of five artisanal miners who had descended into a shallow shaft measuring about five metres deep in search of the precious mineral.
While they were inside the shaft, the walls suddenly gave way, trapping all five underground. The collapse is believed to have been caused by loose, wet soil following recent rains, which had made the unprotected shaft unstable.
After the collapse, panic broke out at the site as other artisanal miners nearby fled the area, fearing further cave-ins. They later regrouped and began rescue efforts, managing to pull the five artisanal miners from the rubble.
However, only two of the men were rescued alive, though they sustained injuries. The other three were pronounced dead at the scene.
A report was made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Mhangura, who attended the scene. The bodies of the deceased and the two injured survivors were taken to Makonde Christian Hospital in Mhangura for post-mortem examinations and medical treatment, respectively.
Police in Mashonaland West have since warned members of the public against illegal mining, describing it as both a criminal offence and a danger to life.
“As police, we urge people to avoid working in unprotected mining shafts, particularly during the rainy season when wet soil greatly increases the risk of collapse,” said Insp Kohwera.
Authorities stressed that mining activities must be carried out in accordance with the law and safety regulations, adding that those found engaging in illegal mining will face arrest.
The tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers associated with illegal gold panning, especially during the rainy season.
