Authorities in Mashonaland Central Province have uncovered the remains of around seven individuals in a mine shaft at Elvingz Mine, located on Makalanga Farm in Mazowe.
According to The Herald, Sergeant Major Samuel Chikasha, deputy provincial police spokesperson, stated that the remains were found at the top of a mountain where open-cast mining operations have reached depths of approximately 30 meters.
Sgt Major Chikasha explained that the current mining activities at Elvingz Mine are connected to an old German shaft, where the remains were discovered.
He further revealed that debris excavated from the shaft included torn plastic, ragged clothing, worn-out shoe heels, tattered blankets, what is believed to be human bones, and hair. Ten pairs of trousers in various colors—green, maroon, and brown—were also recovered. He noted:
“Some of the trousers had bones inside, indicating that bodies may have been thrown into the shaft intact. Due to decomposition, the bones had lost their shape. Black and white plastic materials were also found in the shaft.”
Sgt Major Chikasha urged anyone with information that could assist with the investigation or help identify the remains to contact the nearest police station.
The remains are set to be transported to Parirenyatwa Hospital for forensic analysis to determine the number of bodies, the time of death, and potential causes.
Reports indicate that on the morning of August 31, 2024, employees of Lingyong Zimbabwe, contracted by Elvingz Mine to prepare for blasting, stumbled upon the remains. While using an excavator to clear debris, Luckson Mufunga, one of the workers, unearthed plastic, tattered clothes, and shoe remnants, which led to the discovery of human bones and hair.
The mine’s manager, Webster Chikuku, was informed, and the police were notified. Investigators from CID Bindura, along with forensic experts, arrived the next day to continue the investigation.
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