Seven artisanal miners lost their lives when a disused gold shaft collapsed over the weekend in Bindura, approximately 85 kilometers north of Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, police confirmed on Monday.
Authorities have provided limited details about the incident, which occurred on Saturday, but issued a stern warning against illegal mining. “People should refrain from conducting mining activities at illegal shafts and disused mine sites,” police said. Recent heavy rains have saturated the ground, increasing the likelihood of mine collapses, they added.
Five of the seven deceased miners, aged between 20 and 34, have been identified, while efforts continue to locate the families of the remaining two victims. Witnesses reported to local media that up to 15 miners may have been trapped in the collapse, but police have not confirmed the total number of individuals present at the site.
Illegal Mining and Economic Hardships
Zimbabwe, rich in natural resources like platinum, diamonds, gold, coal, and copper, has seen a surge in illegal mining activities due to its struggling economy. These operations often take place in dangerous conditions, leading to frequent accidents.
In September 2023, at least nine people died in a mine collapse in Chegutu, about 120 kilometers west of Harare. Saturday’s tragedy also follows a deadly collapse at an illegal mining site in neighboring South Africa, where 87 bodies were recovered.
The incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by miners operating outside the bounds of safety regulations in search of livelihoods.