GWANDA, Zimbabwe – A somber mood has descended on the mining community of Makwe in Gwanda after three people perished in a devastating fire that engulfed the cabin they were sleeping in.
The incident, which occurred under unclear circumstances, has left residents in shock and police investigating the cause of the deadly blaze.
The tragedy unfolded on the night of March 19, 2026, at around 2200 hours at Lone Mine 50 Compound in Makwe, Gwanda, Matebeleland South province.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the incident, stating that the victims were burnt beyond recognition.
“The ZRP confirms a fire incident which occurred on March 19, 2026, at around 2200 hours at Lone Mine 50 Compound, Makwe, Gwanda, in which three people died after a cabin they were sleeping in caught fire,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
He added that the charred remains of the victims were transported to Gwanda Provincial Hospital mortuary, where post-mortem examinations are expected to be conducted to assist in the identification process.
“Investigations are in progress to establish the cause of fire,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased, pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.
The close-knit mining community has been left reeling by the sudden loss, with neighbors describing a frantic scene as the fire spread quickly through the cabin.
Police have urged members of the public with any information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.
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