Two Killed, One Injured as Mine Tunnel Collapse in Salima
Published on December 8, 2025 at 6:32 AM by Edgar Naitha
Two people have died and one other is receiving medical treatment after a tunnel at an illegal mining site collapsed at Kalembo Village under Traditional Authority (T/A) Khombedza in Salima.
Salima Police public relations officer Rabecca Ndiwate has identified the deceased as Edward Khipa, 46, and Harriet Mbonyo, 27. The surviving victim, Lizinet Masauko, 22, is currently receiving treatment at Salima District Hospital.
According to Ndiwate, the three were part of a group of villagers digging for precious stones along the Lipimbi River when the tunnel caved in, burying them in the rubble.
All three were rushed to Salima District Hospital, where Khipa and Mbonyo were pronounced dead upon arrival. Masauko remains admitted.
Khipa hailed from Kalembo Village, while Mbonyo came from Mnyoka Village, both under T/A Khombedza in Salima District.
