Rescue operations are underway in Zimbabwe's Chegutu district after a disused gold mine collapsed, claiming the lives of at least 10 illegal miners. It is estimated that around 42 artisanal miners were working underground at the Bay Horse Mine when it caved in on them, with 21 individuals rescued and another 10 believed to be trapped in the debris. Ten deaths have been confirmed, some victims found pinned beneath rocks.
Zimbabwe's Vice President, Constantino Chiwenga, stated that up to 13 people may have died from the accident and assured government support for funeral costs.
"The mine, located 62 miles west of Harare, in the Mashonaland West province, is approximately 150 meters deep and accessed through undesignated entry points,"
says provincial official Marian Chombo.
Chombo has also called on mining companies in the region to provide assistance in the ongoing rescue efforts, citing their expertise and equipment as valuable resources.
"Artisanal mining is prevalent in Zimbabwe, given its rich deposits of gold and diamonds. Tragically, accidents at illegal mining sites are common occurrences in the country,"
the report notes, with a similar incident in 2019 resulting in the recovery of about two dozen bodies from a flooded mine in the Mashonaland West province.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)