In a harrowing incident near Kenieba, a collapse at an illegal gold mine has led to the loss of more than 40 lives. Most of those who perished were women scouring for gold scraps in open-pit areas left by industrial miners when the ground gave way beneath them. Details regarding the precise death toll are varying, with local police reporting 48 fatalities, while industry representatives confirmed 43.
Mali Gold Mine Tragedy: Over 40 Lives Lost in Collapse
Mali Gold Mine Tragedy: Over 40 Lives Lost in Collapse
At least 40 innocent lives were claimed after an illegal gold mining collapse occurred in Mali's Kayes region, marking yet another tragic event in the country’s mining sector.
The tragic mishap, occurring on Saturday, follows another mining accident last month where at least ten individuals died due to a tunnel flooding incident. "Some of the victims fell into the water. Among them was a woman with her baby on her back," highlighted a local police source speaking to AFP.
Mali is recognized as one of the world's prominent gold producers; however, many mining operations remain unregulated, leading to frequent accidents attributed to hazardous mining practices. Approximately a year ago, a tunnel collapse in a different location resulted in at least 40 casualties.
A representative from the country's mines ministry acknowledged the recent accident, specifying that it occurred between Kenieba and Dabia, yet refrained from providing additional details. Ministry representatives are currently compiling a report based on the incident.
This collapse occurred at a site previously operated by a Chinese firm, as reported by AFP, during a time when Mali is navigating a contentious revenue-sharing dispute with Canadian mining giant Barrick. The Malian government has made headlines in recent months by seizing gold bars valued at $245 million from Barrick and issuing an arrest warrant for its CEO, Mark Bristow. In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Bristow expressed optimism in resolving these ongoing conflicts.
Mali is recognized as one of the world's prominent gold producers; however, many mining operations remain unregulated, leading to frequent accidents attributed to hazardous mining practices. Approximately a year ago, a tunnel collapse in a different location resulted in at least 40 casualties.
A representative from the country's mines ministry acknowledged the recent accident, specifying that it occurred between Kenieba and Dabia, yet refrained from providing additional details. Ministry representatives are currently compiling a report based on the incident.
This collapse occurred at a site previously operated by a Chinese firm, as reported by AFP, during a time when Mali is navigating a contentious revenue-sharing dispute with Canadian mining giant Barrick. The Malian government has made headlines in recent months by seizing gold bars valued at $245 million from Barrick and issuing an arrest warrant for its CEO, Mark Bristow. In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Bristow expressed optimism in resolving these ongoing conflicts.
