JUST IN: Gold miner dies after falling into mine shaft

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, online journalist

A gold miner has died after falling into a 20-meter-deep mine shaft in Umzingwane while illegally digging for gold.

Matabeleland South Provincial Police spokesperson Inspector Loveness Mangena confirmed the incident which happened on September 15 at around 5 a.m. at Crown Farm.

She said Gilbert Sibanda (25) was illegally digging for gold with two other people when he slipped and fell into the 20-meter-deep shaft.

“I can confirm that we have recorded a case of sudden death that occurred in Umzingwane. Gilbert Sibanda who was in the company of two others was illegally prospecting for gold at Crown Farm.

“As he entered the well, Sibanda slipped and fell into the well and suffered broken legs and head injuries. He was helped by his comrades who took him out of the well and he was taken to the Umzingwane district hospital where he was confirmed dead on his arrival, ”she said.

Inspector Mangena urged people to stop engaging in illegal mining activities as it would put their lives in danger.

“As the police, we continue to urge people to stop engaging in illegal mining activities because in doing so they will be putting their lives at risk. These people carry out their mining activities without the necessary protective clothing and equipment, which can result in injury or, in the worst case, death, as in this case. People need to regularize their mining operations and acquire the necessary equipment and clothing, ”she said.

@DubeMatutu