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Grief and disbelief have gripped Zimbabwean families after it was confirmed that 20 of their own perished in a chilling mine disaster at Buffelsfontein Mine in Stilfontein, South Africa.The Zimbabwe Republic Police on Tuesday released the names of the deceased nationals following a grim verification process led by the Zimbabwean Embassy.
The tragic incident, which unfolded around January, claimed the lives of at least 87 miners of various nationalities, most of them illegal artisanal diggers. The majority had been trapped underground, too scared to surface after the South African authorities launched “Operation Vala Umgodi” to crack down on illegal mining activities.
By Ropafadzo Mashawi
With the dust now settling, Zimbabwe is left mourning the confirmed deaths of Bothwell Mlambo, Bobo Sithole, Gladman Mlambo, Blessing Mlambo, Shepherd (surname unknown), Kenisa Majoni, Bernard Mamombe, Trust Makitisa, Jairosi Pasa, Thomas Chipanza, Jack Mlambo Maeza, Edzai Mlambo Maeza, Mike Mlambo, Pindirai Dumbarimwe, Tendai Mubaiba, Mebishengs Mutubuki, Tinashe Shangure, Tafadzwa Ndlovu and Justice Mwapinda.National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the identities and appealed for next of kin to come forward and claim the bodies.
“The bodies are yet to be claimed. Some of the victims’ full details are still unknown, but all indications point to Zimbabwean nationals,” said Comm Nyathi. “Families must assist in confirming identities and helping with the repatriation process.”
Relatives and friends are urged to contact the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712800197, or visit any nearest police station.
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Pretoria, David Hamadziripi, said DNA testing would be used to confirm identities. He urged anyone fearing the worst about missing relatives to urgently contact the consulate in Johannesburg via emergency line +27610373400 or visit 20 Ernest Oppenheimer Avenue in Bruma.
As the nation grapples with the tragedy, the incident has reignited debates over the risks of illegal mining.
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