Gold Mine Collapse Killed 22 in Tanzania

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The collapse of an illegal gold mine has killed at least 22 people in northern Tanzania. It resulted from a sudden landslide at the mine in the Bariadi district in the Simiyu region following heavy rains.

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According to Simiyu Regional Fire and Rescue Acting Commander Faustine Mtitu, it had commenced rescue activities immediately after the target. The bodies were recovered after two days of extensive search. As per initial reports, only less than 20 people were reportedly trapped in the mine. However, the rescue operations resulted in retrieval of 22 bodies. No more bodies are left inside the mine, he added.

Samia Suluhu Hassan, President, Tanzania condoled the death of the miners, stating that they were small miners who tried to earn a living for themselves and their families and contributing to the country’s development.

The illegal miners had illegally entered into the mine following the suspension of mining activities. The management, in collaboration with security forces, had removed a set of people who had entered into the mine. A fresh group of miners, who entered the mine as the management was dealing with the first set of people, met with the tragedy.

Meantime, mining activities in the mines have been suspended until safety mining procedures are in place.