In a tragic event, more than 200 people have been killed in a mine collapse located in Rubaya, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, as reported by rebel authorities. The incident occurred on Wednesday when the mine collapsed following heavy rainfall, according to Lumumba Kambere Muyisa, the spokesman for the North Kivu region's rebel governor. The exact death toll was initially uncertain. Among the victims were women and children who were mining coltan—a mineral essential for the manufacturing of electronics such as smartphones and computers. A former supervisor highlighted the inadequate maintenance of the mine, which increases the risk of accidents and complicates subsequent rescue efforts. This situation was exacerbated by the fragile soil conditions of the mining site. Approximately 20 survivors are reported to be receiving medical treatment. Individuals affected by the tragedy have expressed deep sorrow, describing the loss as significant to both their families and the community at large. Governor Erasto Bahati Musanga has since visited those affected by the collapse. The Rubaya mines are crucial to the global supply of coltan, representing about 15% of the world's resources and half of DR Congo's deposits. The area has been under the control of the M23 rebels, who are alleged to impose taxes on the mining activities for their own benefit. The United Nations previously criticized the conditions within these mining operations, which pose ongoing risks to the miners.
Tragic Mine Collapse Claims Over 200 Lives in Eastern DR Congo
Tragic Mine Collapse Claims Over 200 Lives in Eastern DR Congo
A devastating mine collapse in Rubaya, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has left more than 200 people dead, with many victims being women and children involved in coltan mining operations. The incident, attributed to heavy rains, has raised concerns over safety conditions in rebel-controlled mining sites.
More than 200 individuals lost their lives in a mine collapse in Rubaya, DR Congo, owing to heavy rains causing the site to give way. Many of the deceased were women and children engaged in mining coltan, a critical mineral used in electronics. The poor maintenance of the mine and the fragile soil conditions are cited as contributing factors to the disaster.
