On Saturday, the world witnessed a devastating incident as an illegal gold mine in the Kayes region of Mali collapsed, resulting in the deaths of over 40 people, most of whom were women. The mining site, located near Kenieba, was characterized by open pits left by industrial miners, where individuals had ventured in search of scrap gold. Eyewitness accounts highlight the tragic nature of the event, with reports indicating that some victims fell into the water during the collapse, including a woman with her infant in tow.
Tragic Collapse at Illegal Gold Mine Claims Lives in Mali
Tragic Collapse at Illegal Gold Mine Claims Lives in Mali
Over 40 individuals, primarily women, were tragically killed in an illegal gold mine collapse in Mali's Kayes region on Saturday.
The disaster marks Mali's second grave mining accident in a short span, following a tunnel flooding incident in late January that claimed at least 10 lives. Conflicting reports on the number of casualties have emerged, with local police citing 48 fatalities while industry sources mention 43.
Mali, notable for being one of the world’s largest gold producers, grapples with repeated accidents, largely due to unregulated mining activities that often employ unsafe techniques. An historic incident a year prior saw at least 40 people perish after a tunnel collapse in a similar setting.
While Mali's mines ministry confirmed the occurrence of the accident near Kenieba and Dabia, details remained sparse. Officials have been dispatched to generate a report on the tragedy. The site of the collapse was previously under the operation of a Chinese firm, reflecting China's substantial investment in Mali's mining sector. Currently, the Malian government faces revenue disputes with Barrick Gold, a major Canadian mining company, highlighted by the recent seizure of gold valued at $245 million and an arrest warrant for its CEO.
As Mali continues to navigate the complexities of its mining industries, safety regulations remain a critical concern amid an ongoing dialogue about resource management and company responsibilities.
Mali, notable for being one of the world’s largest gold producers, grapples with repeated accidents, largely due to unregulated mining activities that often employ unsafe techniques. An historic incident a year prior saw at least 40 people perish after a tunnel collapse in a similar setting.
While Mali's mines ministry confirmed the occurrence of the accident near Kenieba and Dabia, details remained sparse. Officials have been dispatched to generate a report on the tragedy. The site of the collapse was previously under the operation of a Chinese firm, reflecting China's substantial investment in Mali's mining sector. Currently, the Malian government faces revenue disputes with Barrick Gold, a major Canadian mining company, highlighted by the recent seizure of gold valued at $245 million and an arrest warrant for its CEO.
As Mali continues to navigate the complexities of its mining industries, safety regulations remain a critical concern amid an ongoing dialogue about resource management and company responsibilities.
