ZRP urges public to shun illegal mining following mine collapse fatalities
Providence Moyo
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo is urging members of the community to avoid illegal mining activities, following a mine collapse incident at Cecil Mine that claimed the lives of two miners on January 9, 2024.
The deceased, Thompson Sibanda and Colleen Manyathela, both from Nkayi, are believed to have interfered with pillars supporting the mine shaft, causing its collapse, according to Provincial police spokesperson for Bulawayo Inspector Abednico Ncube.
“The incident occurred at approximately 10:00 AM when the two miners went down a 20-meter mine shaft to check water levels before starting work. When they failed to return by 1:00 PM, their 31-year-old colleague raised the alarm and mobilized a rescue team. Sibanda was retrieved at 11:00 PM, while Manyathela’s body was recovered the following day.”
Inspector Ncube further reported that both deceased miners had bruises all over their bodies, suggesting that the mine collapse had caused significant trauma.
He emphasized the dangers of engaging in illegal mining activities, not only because they are a crime but also because they pose a severe threat to human life.
“The ZRP urges members of the Bulawayo community to adhere to the law and avoid illegal mining practices to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future,” said Inspector Ncube.
