More than 200 people killed in major collapse at Rubaya coltan mine in Democratic Republic of Congo

A major structural collapse at the Rubaya coltan mine in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo CDhas caused mass casualties this week at a site that serves as a critical link in the global electronics supply chain. According to lubumba kambere muyisa, the spokesperson for the rebel-appointed governor of the province, more than 200 people were killed in the disaster. The collapse occurred on Wednesday and the precise toll was still unclear as of Friday evening.

An adviser to the governor provided a higher estimate, stating that the number of confirmed dead was at least 227. This official spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media on the situation. While rescue efforts have been underway, authorities noted that some people were rescued but have sustained serious injuries. The site is primarily worked by local artisanal miners who dig manually for a few dollars per day.