Collapsing small mines leave five dead, several others missing
What you need to know:
Death toll could rise as the four missing miners could be buried under the ruble after small mines collapsed in Nyang'hwale District, Geita Region on Thursday.
Nyang'hwale. Five artisanal miners have died and about several others are missing after makeshift mines collapsed in Mwasabuka Area, Nyang'hwale District, Geita Region on Thursday, November 29, 2018.
The accident had not been reported, the Nyang'hwale District Commissioner, Hamimu Gwiyama told MCL, until well-wishers informed the district authorities on Saturday, December 1, 2018. Small-scale mining activities have been suspended to pave the way for the rescue of the missing miners.
Mr Hamimu said the accident was not reported because the miners were operating illegally in a mining block belonging to Bulyanhulu Gold Mine, part of the Acacia Mining companies.
“Five bodies have already been recovered in a rescue mission conducted by district officials. We believe four other artisanal miners are still trapped inside,” he said.
At least 3,000 people eke out a living at Mwasabuka Area as artisanal miners.
