Police have confirmed the discovery of suspected human remains in a mine shaft in Silobela, an incident that has revived memories of past conflicts among villagers and prompted calls for investigations into the identity of the deceased.
Midlands police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, said the remains were discovered at Black Dawn Shaft in the Jena Mines area on 8 May at around 11:00.
“We confirm that police in Kwekwe received a report concerning the discovery of suspected human remains at Black Dawn Shaft, Jena Mines area in Silobela, on 8 May 2026 at around 11:00,” said Insp Mahoko.
He said the report was made by Talent Mpunzi (40), of Leopard Village in Silobela, who is employed at Jena Mines.
“The informant received information from other workers at the mine that while carrying out mining activities at a depth of about 20 metres, they discovered bones suspected to be human remains,” said Insp Mahoko.
He added that police officers attended the scene and retrieved the remains, which were later taken to Kwekwe Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination.
“Members of the public who may have information that could assist in identifying the remains are encouraged to visit their nearest police station,” he said.
The discovery comes days after local community members raised concerns that the remains could be linked to victims of the liberation struggle or the Gukurahundi disturbances of the 1980s.
In a previous report, Ward 20 councillor Maqhawe Moyo told CITE that mining operations at the site had been halted to allow investigations to be carried out.
Cllr Moyo said there are two pits at the mine that were historically used as dumping sites for bodies during periods of war and political violence.
He added that community leaders had warned miners against digging in areas believed to contain human remains linked to past atrocities, but they proceeded despite the warnings.