Zimbabwe: Suspected grenade explosion kills two in Matabeleland North province on September 4

Event

An explosion in Ward 10 of Nyamndhlovu district (Matabeleland North province) killed at least two children on Friday, September 4. The incident took place at the Mthethwa homestead community garden in the Majindane area of the district. Police recovered shrapnel from the scene that indicated the blast may have been caused by a grenade. Local media report that police are investigating the possibility that the children were playing with the unexploded ordnance.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the area while police carry out their investigation into the blast. An associated disruption to transportation is likely over the near term.

Context

The incident highlights the risk of unexploded ordnance in Zimbabwe, a country highly impacted by left-over mines and unexploded munitions following decades of conflict.

Advice

Individuals should never approach or touch any unfamiliar objects that may be UXO and should immediately report any such objects to police or security forces.