Rutendo Chirume
MASVINGO – A 58-year-old Chivi man died after falling into a mining shaft when the rope he was using snapped at Pandish Mine in Manyama on July 4.
Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident and urged miners to observe safety procedures and ensure that mining equipment is in good condition to avoid similar tragedies.
The deceased was identified as Konius Madanhire of Headman, Watungwa, Chivi.
Inspector Dhewa said Madanhire had gone to the mine at around 9pm to sponsor gold mining activities, as was his routine.
Upon arrival, he volunteered to descend about 27 metres into the mining shaft using a rope to assess progress. After spending a few minutes underground, he attempted to climb back to the surface using the same rope.
However, as he emerged from the shaft, the rope snapped, causing him to fall back into the shaft.
Fellow miners retrieved him while he was still alive, but he complained of severe back pain and had sustained a fractured left leg.
He was rushed to Masvingo Provincial Hospital where he was pronounced dead before admission.
