Mbabane – A 28-year-old man from Vusweni is missing after allegedly being trapped underground while participating in illegal mining activities at the Malolotja Game Reserve Gold Mine.
The incident occurred on September 22 at around 2am when seven men, believed to be part of a group known as Zama Zamas, allegedly entered the mine to conduct illegal mining operations.
According to police, the group was inside the mine when a section of sand collapsed, trapping the 28-year-old man.
Five of the suspects reportedly managed to find an alternative escape route and fled the scene.
One of the suspects, however, remained behind and reported the man’s disappearance to the police.
Mbabane Police responded to the report and attempted to search for the missing man.
Further investigations have since revealed that some of the suspects allegedly involved in the incident are currently out on bail in connection with similar illegal mining cases.
The police investigation is ongoing as efforts to establish the whereabouts of the missing man continue.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has warned Emaswati against engaging in illegal mining activities, describing the practice as highly dangerous.
Police further warned that illegal mining is a criminal offence which may result in prosecution and imprisonment.
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