Maputo, 8 Apr (AIM) – The death toll in the collapse of an illegal gold mine in the Vanduzi district, in the central province of Manica, rose from nine to 11.

The tragedy occurred on Sunday in a notorious region of Minas Gerais known as “Seis Carros”.

The mining region of “Seis Carros” became one of the biggest centers of attraction for gold prospectors in Manica. It is estimated that more than ten thousand people, including Mozambicans and foreigners, look for gold there, despite the risks.

In addition to mining, several commercial activities are carried out on site, mostly carried out by young people, creating a parallel economy that has been growing outside the control of the authorities.

According to the police spokesman in Manica, Mouzinho Manasse, other victims continue to be treated in hospital.

“Ten people were buried and died on the spot, in addition to five injured. Of these, three were in serious condition and were transferred to the Chimoio Provincial Hospital. Upon arrival there, one died,” he said.

Manasseh added that health authorities say the hospitalized victims are in stable condition.

The disaster at the “Seis Carros” mine is not an isolated case. Manica has a history of accidents in artisanal mines, many of them associated with landslides during the rainy season.

Mozambican authorities have expressed concern about growing cases of illegal mining, which experts believe is one of the sources of financing for Islamic terrorists operating in parts of the northern province of Cabo Delgado.

According to the National Directorate of Geology and Mining, the country loses revenue of around 90 million meticais (1.4 million dollars) per year due to illegal mining.
(AIM)
Ad/pf (293)