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Pamela Shumba, Senior Reporter
TWO mine workers died after the ground they were sleeping on caved in resulting in them being buried underground at a mining claim in Bubi District, Matabeleland North.

Hloniphani Dube (28) and Edgar Makuvaro (25) were sleeping in a tent at a mining claim in Nkenyane, Bubi District, when the tragic incident happened at about 4AM on Tuesday.

Bulawayo police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Precious Simango confirmed the incident yesterday.

“The two mine workers were sleeping at the mine where they had pitched a tent and retired to bed. The ground caved in while they were still sleeping resulting in them being buried underground at about 4AM.

“The ground caved in probably due to incessant rains received in the area,” said Asst Insp Simango.

She said a report was made at Queens Park Police Station and the bodies of the two were retrieved the same day.

Bubi District Administrator Mr Juma Dube advised mine owners to assess ground conditions regularly especially when it is raining to avoid such disasters.

“This clearly shows that the area was not safe for people to stay or work. Mine owners and their workers should make sure they assess ground conditions especially when it is raining as it is doing now,” he said.

— @pamelashumba1