By Takudziridzwa Nyama
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released the names of five of the seven artisanal miners who tragically lost their lives in a mine shaft collapse at Botha Mine in Bindura this past Saturday.
According to the ZRP the following individuals have been identified through their next of kin Leo Chapondama, a male adult from Maganyani Village, Masembura, Bindura, Zolani Nyani (21) a male adult from Church Road, Chipadze,Bindura,Samson Madyira (20) a male adult from Waerera Village, Masembura, Bindura, Jacob Madyira Nongwe (34) a male adult from Waerera Village, Masembura, Bindura, Mathew Madyira (23) a male adult from Waerera Village, Masembura, Bindura.
In 2024, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development suspended mining operations at Botha Mine in Bindura due to inadequate supervision and insufficient shaft safety measures.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns the public against conducting mining activities at illegal shafts and disused mine sites as the current incessant rains have made the ground wet and prone to collapse and mine trappings.
During rainy season the soil becomes soft and heavy rains have caused many disused and illegal mining sites to become increasingly unstable and hazardous.With the Meteorological Department warning of widespread flooding starting , artisinal miners are better warned to stay off their activities.