Zhombe Chinese miner remanded in custody after deadly mine shaft dispute

Philemon Jambaya

A deadly confrontation erupted on May 26, 2024, at a mine shaft in Zhombe, Midlands Province, leaving one man dead and another injured.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority, 58-year-old Cai Yulong, a miner from Stone Still Mine 10, allegedly shot and killed 23-year-old Goni Goni after an altercation concerning encroachment onto a neighbouring mine shaft. 

Prosecutors claim Goni Goni was part of a four-man crew, along with Komborerai Shariwa, 24, John Muchawaya, 34, and Lovemore Mapfanya, 20, who were working underground at Blackhand 10 Mine when they strayed into the Blue Belle Mine, reportedly owned by Cai.

The NPA alleges that Cai, armed with a pistol, confronted the men over the trespass. The situation escalated tragically, with Cai opening fire and fatally wounding Goni Goni in the left thigh. Muchawaya was also struck by gunfire three times, sustaining injuries to his left knee, right ankle, and left thigh.

He is currently receiving treatment at Kwekwe General Hospital. Mapfanya, after allegedly being struck in the head by Cai, managed to escape the scene and file a police report, leading to Cai’s arrest.

Cai appeared before a Kwekwe magistrate facing charges of murder, attempted murder, and assault. He was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on June 11, 2024.