Nsanje Man Dies After Being Hit by Falling Rock During Alleged Illegal Mining

A 55-year-old man from Nsanje District, identified as Hawasi Sandiyang’ana of Mthepheya Village under Traditional Authority Malemia, has died after being struck by a falling rock while allegedly involved in illegal mining activities at Matandwe Forest Reserve in the Chididi area.

Nsanje Police Deputy Spokesperson Jabulani Ng’oma confirmed the incident, saying it occurred on Monday this week and was reported to police by Group Village Headman Mthepheya.

According to Ng’oma, Sandiyang’ana left home in the morning in the company of several people to Matandwe Forest Reserve, where they were allegedly conducting illegal gold mining. While digging a pit in search of gold ore, a large rock resting on a steep slope about a metre away reportedly collapsed and rolled into the pit.

“At the time of the incident, the deceased was inside the pit with only his head exposed. The rock hit him on the head, causing severe injuries,” said Ng’oma.

Sandiyang’ana was rushed to Chididi Mission Health Centre, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.