More than 200 people have been killed in a mine collapse in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, rebel authorities have said. The mine, in the town of Rubaya, gave way on Wednesday due to heavy rains, as reported by Lumumba Kambere Muyisa, spokesman for the North Kivu region’s rebel governor. At the time of the collapse, many miners, including women and children, were working on-site, extracting coltan, a vital mineral used in electronics like smartphones and computers. A former supervisor highlighted that the site was poorly maintained which not only increased the likelihood of such accidents but also hindered rescue attempts. Women, children, and artisanal miners were among the casualties, with around 20 survivors now receiving treatment in hospitals. One family member of a deceased miner spoke emotionally about the loss, emphasizing the impact on both the family and community. Governor Erasto Bahati Musanga visited survivors to offer support. The M23 rebels currently control Rubaya and are accused of exploiting the local mining sector for their benefit. The area holds significant deposits of coltan, comprising about 15% of the world's supply.
Tragic Mine Collapse Claims Over 200 Lives in DR Congo
Tragic Mine Collapse Claims Over 200 Lives in DR Congo
A catastrophic mine collapse in Rubaya, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in the deaths of more than 200 miners, including women and children. Heavy rains and poor maintenance are believed to have contributed to the disaster.
More than 200 miners have perished following a tragic mine collapse in Rubaya, eastern DR Congo. Rebel authorities confirmed the incident, which took place due to heavy rains on Wednesday. Among the victims are many women and children who were mining coltan, a mineral crucial for electronics. The site has faced critiques for poor maintenance which many say exacerbated the situation. Surviving family members are expressing profound grief over their lost loved ones as rescue efforts continue for the wounded.
