Man plunged into mine shaft over US$10 dispute

A 34-year-old man has been arrested for murder after allegedly pushing his colleague into a disused mine shaft at SOS Claim, Jumbo Mine, Mazowe, following a dispute over US$10.

Police have identified the suspect as Rynos Makwembere, who is accused of causing the death of 37-year-old Claude Nyamatope on January 20, 2025.

According to a statement released by the Zimbabwe Republic Police on Tuesday via X (formerly Twitter), the two men had been paid for constructing a shed at the mine. However, an argument erupted after Makwembere allegedly withheld Nyamatope's share of the payment.

"The victim, Claude Nyamatope, 37, fell into a disused mine shaft and died on the spot after being pushed by the suspect following a misunderstanding over US$10," the police said.

Authorities have since taken Makwembere into custody as investigations into the incident continue.

The tragic incident has sparked outrage among local residents, with many calling for stricter enforcement of safety measures and dispute resolution protocols at mining sites, particularly in informal mining operations where tensions often run high.

Police have urged the public to seek peaceful means of resolving conflicts and reminded citizens to report any disputes to authorities to avoid violent outcomes.