Trymore Tagwirei

Three illegal miners recently died in an accident at Boss Mine in Mashava after their shaft curved in and trapped nine of them, EnviroPress can report.

The three died on the spot while the six survivors were hospitalised at Masvingo Provincial Hospital.

Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the matter to EnviroPress.

“On 08 April, 2025 there was a rumor of trails of gold at Boss Mine and that attracted a wide array of artisanal miners. Security personnel were deployed in the area of the gold rush but on the day in question at around 3am, a group of artisanal miners came from the southern direction and descended on the mine.

“Though security managed to drive them away, another group came from the opposite direction and managed to get deep into shaft where they got trapped. Security managed to rescue six of them but unfortunately, three others had died on the spot,” said Dhewa.

He warned people to desist from illegal mining and to seriously observe rules of safety when engaging in mining activities.

Ward 33 Councilor Tawanda Dube urged miners should comply with the law and priorize their own safety first.

“We are saddened with the fatal accident that occurred at Boss Mine which is the first of its kind. I call upon miners to comply with the law and ensure that they follow mining regulations and take their safety seriously,” said Dube.