Zimbabwe National Army confirms anti-tank mine caused Binga explosion

The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has confirmed that an anti-tank mine, a remnant from the liberation struggle, was responsible for the tragic explosion in Binga on Wednesday, which claimed three lives.

The incident occurred when a vehicle belonging to the Binga Rural District Council (RDC) struck the mine, which had been exposed by recent rains.

Lieutenant Colonel Tichafa Mungofa, ZNA’s deputy director of army public relations, provided details about the incident, explaining that the driver, Micka Munsaka, was attempting to avoid a pothole when the explosion happened. “The vehicle hit the undetonated mine, causing a devastating blast,” he said.

The explosion near Sebungwe Mouth resulted in the immediate death of one woman in the loading box due to severe head and body injuries. Two other passengers, Wonder and Yuna, suffered critical injuries. Wonder lost both legs, while Yuna sustained a fractured leg, with both bleeding profusely.

A local businessman rushed to the scene, transporting the injured to Simatelele Clinic. Tragically, Wonder died en route to the hospital, and Yuna passed away upon arrival at Binga District Hospital.

The victims were employees of the Binga RDC and were returning from the home of the council’s chief executive officer, Joshua Muzamba, when the explosion occurred. Lieutenant Colonel Mungofa recounted, “After finishing their work around 5 PM, Munsaka and his colleagues chose an alternative shortcut road due to muddy conditions on the main road. During their journey, the vehicle struck the unexposed landmine, causing the explosion.”

The Zimbabwe National Army’s confirmation of the cause has brought attention to the lingering dangers of unexploded ordnance from the country’s liberation struggle, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and demining efforts.