30 human remains found in Masvingo mine shaft

Antony Chawagarira
MASVINGO — Artisanal miners working near Stop-Over, beneath Chief Charumbira in Masvingo Rural, uncovered 30 human remains along with ammunition inside an abandoned mine shaft believed to have been used during the liberation struggle.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the recovery and is now conducting a forensic investigation. They called for patience as forensic teams work to identify the individuals involved and understand the circumstances surrounding the remains.
The mine shaft was reportedly accessed by a new gold prospecting venture when the discovery was made. A police source familiar with the investigation said about 30 bodies were recovered from the site and that forensic pathologists were transported to Masvingo Provincial Hospital to begin examinations.
National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi acknowledged the report, though he indicated that officers on the ground were compiling facts before releasing a fuller briefing.
“Yes, it’s true, but at the moment I am waiting for a report from officers on the ground. You can contact me later,” Comm Nyathi said when reached for comment.
Sources described the discovery as significant and potentially sensitive, given its historical context. The seized ammunition and the stated link to the liberation era have prompted additional operational considerations for investigators, including the verification of the remains’ identities and the period of death.
Police and forensic teams are coordinating to establish a total body count and determine whether the remains are those of combatants or civilians linked to historical conflicts in the province.
Masvingo Provincial Hospital Medical Superintendent Nowel Zulu confirmed that the facility has received several bodies for forensic examination.
He said the hospital routinely handles remains in such cases and that the current intake is part of ongoing forensic work related to the incident.
“As the biggest institution in the province, we receive several bodies discovered for forensic examinations, and in this case, we have received some bodies which are currently being examined,” Zulu stated.
Investigators plan to corroborate the discovery with historical records and local witnesses, assess the age and condition of the remains, and determine possible dates of death.
Authorities stressed that the discovery does not imply any immediate danger to the surrounding community, but urged residents to remain vigilant and report any additional discoveries or suspicious activity near old mining sites.
The incident has drawn attention to the province’s long and complex history with mining and liberation-era struggles.
Authorities did not specify whether additional bodies might be located further within the shaft or in nearby tunnels, noting that search operations are continuing in coordination with mining stakeholders and local authorities.