Miner dies 510 metres underground

A Turk Mine miner  died  instantly 510 metres deep underground on Monday after a tunnel collapsed on him while working with  two other workmates.

Two others were hospitalised with some injuries at Inyathi District Hospital.

According to reports, Innocent Moyo died on the spot while Sidingukwazi Ncube (43) and Teramai Muchipisi (24), were hospitalised

Matabeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Siphiwe Makonese  confirmed the tragic accident.

"I can confirm the death of a miner at the mine in Bubi District. Three men were working in a tunnel which is about 510 metres deep which collapsed killing Innocent Moyo.

"One of them was drilling when the roof collapsed, completely covering the now deceased and he died on the spot.  The other two sustained minor injuries and their conditions are stable," she said as quoted by the Chronicle.

Some Turk Mine workers said it was risky working at the mine, but they had no option.

A worker who spoke on condition of anonymity yesterday said even though they were aware of the risks and challenges of working at the mine, they had no choice because most of them were breadwinners.

"We can't complain about the working conditions and we continue despite the risks. We're forced to work under dangerous conditions because we don't have a choice," said the worker.