BY SAMUEL NJINGA IN MASHAVA
A 24-year-old woman from Section 18 in King Mine, Mashava, tragically lost her life on Saturday evening after a suspected explosive device detonated while she was burning litter outside her home.
The deceased, identified as Gladys Nyambi, was sweeping her yard and had gathered trash to burn around during the evening. According to eyewitness Makaita Chirongoma (46), a neighbor, she saw Nyambi cleaning her yard just moments before the incident. Suddenly, a bright flash of light illuminated the area, followed by a powerful explosion that sent shockwaves through the neighborhood, destroying window panes of most of the houses.
Nyambi, who was close by, sustained severe injuries during the blast, suffering blisters on her head and other injuries. She was rushed to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for emergency treatment before being transferred to Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare. Tragically, despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries upon arrival.
Local authorities and police have since launched an investigation into the fatal explosion. Preliminary findings revealed a one-meter deep crater at the point of the blast, raising suspicions that Nyambi might have unknowingly ignited an old explosive device, possibly a remnant from mining activities in the area.
The incident has shocked the Mashava community, with residents expressing concern over the potential dangers of unexploded ordinances in the mining town. Police have called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects to authorities, especially in areas with a history of mining activities.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities seek to determine the source and nature of the explosive device. Nyambi’s death has left her family and the community in mourning.