Two people died whilst three others escaped with injuries last night at Vigilant Mine, Kwekwe after a shaft they were working in collapsed around 1900hours.

Police confirmed the deaths identifying the two as Busani Nyathi and Proud Maphosa.

“We confirm receipt of a report of a mine accident which claimed the lives of two miners while three others managed to escape. The incident occurred at Vigilant Mine, Kwekwe on 7 July 2026 at about 1900 hours. The now deceased are Busani Nyathi and Proud Maphosa, both male adults,” Midlands Police Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said.

The accident said to have occured whilst the two were working underground with three others.

It is said when they were at a depth of about 200m, a block of soil collapsed from the roof of the shaft, covering the miners. Three of them safely exited the shaft and the now deceased remained trapped.

Police called on all miners to ensure safety protocols are followed during operations.

“We remind all persons who do mining business to follow all safety guidelines provided under the Mines and Minerals Act, Chapter 21:05,” said Insp Mahoko.