Landslide results in mine collapse in Congo; over 200 killed

A mine collapse triggered by a landslide in Rubaya, jap Democratic Republic of Congo, killed greater than 200 individuals on Wednesday, native authorities stated.The collapse occurred at a coltan mine that produces round 15 per cent of the world’s provide of the mineral, which is processed into tantalum utilized in cell phones, computer systems, aerospace parts and fuel generators.Lumumba Kambere Muyisa, spokesperson for the rebel-appointed governor of the province, stated the precise toll stays unclear. “Greater than 200 individuals have been victims of this landslide, together with miners, kids and market ladies. Some individuals have been rescued simply in time and have severe accidents,” he instructed Reuters, including that about 20 injured individuals have been being handled in well being amenities.He stated the collapse was linked to seasonal circumstances. “We’re within the wet season. The bottom is fragile. It was the bottom that gave approach whereas the victims have been within the gap.”An adviser to the governor stated the variety of confirmed useless was at the very least 227. The Rubaya mine has been beneath the management of the AFC/M23 insurgent group since 2024. The United Nations says the group has plundered the realm’s mineral assets to assist fund its insurgency, backed by the federal government of neighboring Rwanda, an allegation Kigali denies.The closely armed rebels say their intention is to overthrow the federal government in Kinshasa and make sure the security of the Congolese Tutsi minority. They captured extra mineral-rich territory in jap Congo throughout a speedy advance final yr.