Over 200 Killed in Congo Gold Mine Collapse Triggered by Landslide
A devastating landslide caused a gold mine to collapse in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, killing more than 200 people, according to a local official.
Key Takeaways
- Casualties: Over 200 people killed in the mine collapse.
- Location: Shamata village, Mwenga territory, South Kivu province.
- Cause: Triggered by a landslide, a common hazard in the region.
- Context: Area is mineral-rich but dominated by risky artisanal mining.
Details of the Tragedy
The fatal accident occurred on Friday at the mine in Shamata village, located in the Mwenga territory of South Kivu province. A local official, who requested anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the press, confirmed the incident on Saturday.
Recurring Hazard in Mining Region
Landslides are a frequent occurrence in this part of Congo, particularly during the rainy season. While the region is abundant in valuable minerals like gold, mining operations are largely informal and artisanal. This lack of regulation and safety standards makes such sites highly vulnerable, leading to frequent accidents.
