Beatrice Imbayago

DEATH came unexpectedly for a 37-year-old man from Shamva after he fell into a 42-metre deep mine shaft while lowering a colleague.

Tapiwa Chidevanyika of Mbavara Village under Chief Bushu was working at Deep 3 Mine in Shamva when death visited.

On October 20, 2024 Chidevanyika was with a friend, Gift Jeke, whom he was lowering into the mine shaft using a rope.

While lowering Jeke, Chidevanyika slipped and fell into the mine shaft which is 42 meters deep.

Dhengeza Abmile who was also conducting his mining activities entered the shaft in a bid to help Chidevanyika, only to discover that he had already died.

The body was retrieved and a police report was made at Shamva Police.

Sargeant Major Chidhembe of the Mashonaland Central Police urged miners to take caution to avoid loss of lives.

“Mashonaland Central police is appealing to all mine workers and owners to prioritise safety in their operations, to ensure life is not lost due to avoidable accidents,” he said.

He urged owners undertake daily safety preparations with their workers so as to enlighten them on the do’s and don’ts of mining.

“Owners of mines must always have daily safety talks with their staff so that they can be aware of the things they have to do and not do while mining,” he said.

There has been a surge in miners reportedly losing their lives due to recklessness and lack of proper mining knowledge.

New Ziana