The ManicaPost
Luthando Mapepa Chipinge Correspondent
A GOLD panner (33) was last week trapped to death at Tarka Estate in Chimanimani District.
Chipinge District police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Blessing Kadzuraumera, confirmed the incident which happened last Friday.
“Yes, I can confirm the death of Shepherd Thotho of Chinyawaka Village under Chief Muusha’s area who died after being trapped in a tunnel at Tarka Estate.
“On February 17, at around 4pm, Shepherd teamed up with his friends, Prince Mhondera (27), Charles Mhondera (36) and Hardlife Dube (29), all of Hlabiso Village and proceeded to Tarka Estate gold panning site for illegal gold panning.
“While at the estate, Shepherd went inside the 15-metre deep tunnel and begun panning for gold.
“Due to the wet weather prevailing in Chimanimani, the walls of the tunnel collapsed and trapped him inside.
“Charles Mhondera rushed to report the matter to the police. Police attended the scene and Shepherd’s body was retrieved from the tunnel.
“His next of kin were advised and no foul play is suspected. Post mortem was waived by Chipinge magistrate, Mr Poterai Gwezhira,” he said.
