Builder killed, 2 injured in wall collapse

A 22-year-old builder was killed and two of his colleagues injured after a wall they were constructing collapsed at a mining site in Chipinge District.

The deceased has been identified as Hapson Mhlanga of Chief Garahwa, Chipinge.

According to police, the incident occurred on Tuesday while the three men were carrying out construction work at the mining site.

Mhlanga was struck on the head by a brick when the wall collapsed, sustaining severe injuries.

He was rushed to St Peter's Mission Hospital for treatment but succumbed to his injuries the following day.

Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident.

He said two other workers were also injured during the collapse.

Cleopas Mapeya (27) is reported to be in critical condition and is receiving treatment at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital.

Another colleague, Peace Simango (25), sustained injuries but is said to be in a stable condition at St Peter's Mission Hospital.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the circumstances that led to the wall collapse, and investigations into the incident are underway.

The tragedy has once again highlighted the importance of workplace safety and adherence to construction standards, particularly in high-risk environments such as mining sites where workers are exposed to multiple hazards.

Police have urged employers and contractors to ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place to protect workers and prevent avoidable accidents.