More than 100 people may have died in a landslide at an illegal gold mine in the Central African Republic
A landslide occurred at the illegal Zamboie gold mine in the western part of the Central African Republic, possibly killing more than 100 workers. The mine is located near the border with Cameroon, about 50 kilometers from the city of Babua, according to Deutsche Welle.
The landslide occurred on Tuesday afternoon. Local authorities initially reported at least 30 deaths, but the death toll was later revised to over 100. Miners remain trapped under the rubble, and officials have stated that their chances of survival are rapidly diminishing.
Rescue efforts continued on Wednesday. According to reports from the scene, people were retrieving bodies from the collapsed mine entrance, while others were calling for help.
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According to the Babua prosecutor’s office, the tragedy was caused by the collapse of several underground tunnels where the miners were working. The prosecutor’s office also announced the launch of an investigation into the circumstances of the accident.
Central African Republic government spokesperson Évariste Ngamana expressed his condolences and stated that the authorities are working to provide assistance to the victims. Artisanal mines operate in this gold-rich region, many of which are illegal and lack proper safety standards. Since the beginning of the year, dozens of miners have already died as a result of landslides in this area.
