Fatal Kwekwe Mine Accident Involved Unauthorised Artisanal Miners, Vigilant Resources Says

Kwekwe — Vigilant Resources says two men killed in an underground shaft collapse at Chaka Mine in Kwekwe were not working under the company's authority but were engaged in unauthorised artisanal mining despite repeated safety warnings.

The company issued the clarification in a statement issued by the Corporate Rescue Management following media reports on the fatal incident, which occurred on the evening of July 7.

According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the accident happened at about 7pm when a section of an underground shaft collapsed approximately 200 metres below the surface.

Police identified the deceased as Busani Nyathi and Proud Maphosa.

ZRP Midlands Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, said the two men were underground with three other miners when a block of soil fell from the roof of the shaft, trapping the pair beneath the debris.

Three other miners managed to escape safely, while the bodies of the two victims were later recovered.

Following the incident, Inspector Mahoko urged mining operators and workers to adhere to safety regulations contained in the Mines and Minerals Act to help prevent similar tragedies.

In their response, Vigilant Resources expressed condolences to the families of the deceased but said it was necessary to clarify the circumstances surrounding the accident.

"The individuals involved were not undertaking mining activities under the authority, supervision or direction of Vigilant Resources," the company said.

The said they have, over an extended period, engaged with artisanal miners allegedly operating illegally within and around Chaka Mine, repeatedly warning them against entering abandoned underground workings because of the risks posed by unsupported excavations, unstable ground and possible shaft collapses.

Vigilant Resources said they held numerous meetings, conducted safety briefings and issued written memoranda urging artisanal miners and their leaders to cease unauthorised mining activities.

They also informed the Zimbabwe Republic Police of the continued illegal mining and sought assistance to stop the activities in the interest of public safety and the protection of mineral resources, theh said.

The company said despite those efforts, some artisanal miners continued accessing the underground shafts.

The mining firm added that it is pursuing additional legal remedies alongside its engagement with law enforcement authorities.

Vigilant Resources also said they are currently under Corporate Rescue and is not conducting active mining operations at Chaka Mine.

"We also wish to clarify that Vigilant Resources which is currently under Corporate Rescue, is not undertaking mining operations at Chaka Mine.

"The Company is presently focused on mine development activities in accordance with its approved restructuring process and the terms of its current joint venture arrangements.

"Our immediate priority is the development of larger-scale mining infrastructure and the implementation of strategic projects that will support safe, sustainable and higher-volume production once mining operations formally commence," the company said.

They further said they had encouraged and facilitated the relocation of artisanal miners to neighbouring mining claims where lawful mining opportunities were available, describing the initiative as an effort to protect lives while supporting community livelihoods.

The management team said they are concerned that earlier reports could create the impression that it was actively operating the mine at the time of the incident or that the deceased were working under its supervision.

The company said it remains committed to mine safety and will continue working with law enforcement agencies, local leaders and surrounding communities to discourage unauthorised mining activities while advancing the rehabilitation and future development of Chaka Mine.

"Vigilant Resources remains committed to the highest standards of mine safety and will continue working with the relevant authorities, local leadership and surrounding communities to discourage unauthorised mining activities and prevent further loss of life.

"We remain committed to engaging all stakeholders constructively as we progress with the rehabilitation and future development of the Chaka Mine," the company said.

Meanwhile, police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shaft collapse are continuing.