Police fret over mine accidents

Zim Now Writer

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has raised concern over the increase in mine accidents, especially in the artisanal and small-mining sector.

Police have implored mine proprietors to take necessary measures to improve occupational safety, health and environmental management.

This follows the death of two artisanal miners Anesi Tinotenda, 24, and Jeremia Mutuda, who died after the two were trapped at Juno K29 Mine, Chakari Mine when an underground mine shaft they were working on collapsed.

In a similar incident, police in Zvishavane are investigating a mine accident in which a 38-year-old man died on January 24 at Atlena 51 Mine.

“Tichaona Sithole is said to have fallen on rocky surface after slipping from a bucket which was being used to lower him down the mine shaft,” police said.

This also comes days after the Environmental Management Authority fined Jannarch 17 Gold Mining and Milling for failing to exercise due caution in the management of hazardous substances.

EMA also ordered the closure of Redwing Mine operated by Better Brands due to increasing number of fatalities.

The mine had reportedly recorded 21 deaths from January 2022 to January 2023.

Zimbabwe Miners Federation chief executive officer Wellington Takavarasha was not available for a comment.