Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Zimpapers Writer
A mine worker died on Friday after he was buried under a heap of chrome fines at the Zimasco West Plant in Kwekwe.
The now deceased, Mr Cosmas Musoni, a front-end loader operator, was buried under the chrome fines shortly after beginning his shift at approximately 7AM.
According to close sources, the accident occurred just 30 minutes into his shift. After being rescued, Mr Musoni was rushed to Kwekwe District Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The site is operated by a Chinese-owned company Tai Hao International Resources (Pvt) Ltd, which has been contracted by Zimasco premises. The company’s manager, Mr Lee Gian, confirmed the incident in a statement issued through the firm’s legal representatives, Chitsa and Masvava Law Chambers.
“We act for and on behalf of Tai Hao International Resources (Pvt) Ltd and hereby confirm the tragic, unexpected and unforeseen death of Mr Cosmas Musoni whilst on duty, on the 27th of June 2025,” read the statement.
The letter further explained that Mr Musoni and the front-end loader he was operating were engulfed by a ferrochrome slag avalanche from a stockpile he was loading at the site.
“As a responsible corporate citizen, Tai Hao International Resources (Pvt) Ltd is co-operating with the relevant authorities, to ensure that all legal requirements are met to prevent any recurrence,” the company added.
The company also expressed its condolences, noting the impact of Mr Musoni’s death on both his family and the wider community. It confirmed that it is working closely with the bereaved family, to ensure the deceased receives a proper and dignified burial.
“Mr Musoni was a hardworking, well-groomed and well-cherished employee of the company, who will be sorely missed,” the statement concluded.
derick.khumalo