Story by Courage Bushe
FOUR illegal miners are feared dead after a mine shaft collapsed at the Sabi Vlei mining area in Zvishavane late Thursday night.
The incident reportedly occurred around midnight while the miners were allegedly carrying out illegal mining activities at the site.
According to eyewitness accounts, the group had entered the area under the cover of darkness when the shaft suddenly collapsed, trapping them underground.
Rescue and recovery efforts began immediately after the incident.
One body has since been retrieved from the collapsed shaft.
Zimbabwe Republic Police is working together with fellow miners and other relevant authorities to recover the remaining victims.
The identities of the deceased have not yet been released pending notification of their next of kin.
Illegal mining continues to pose serious safety risks, with unregulated operations often exposing miners to hazardous conditions, including unstable shafts, inadequate support structures, and a lack of safety equipment.
Authorities have urged communities to desist from illegal mining activities and to prioritise safety by operating within the confines of the law.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collapse are underway.
