The death toll from a devastating landslide at an illegal gold mine on Indonesia’s central island of Sulawesi has risen to 23, with 35 others still missing, local rescue officials reported on Tuesday. The tragedy highlights the perils faced by those who seek fortunes in unlicensed mining operations across the mineral-rich nation.
The landslide occurred in the early hours of Sunday in a remote village in the Bone Bolango regency of Gorontalo province. Heavy downpours triggered the collapse at midnight on Saturday, burying miners under tons of mud and debris. Rescue efforts have been hampered by difficult terrain and ongoing adverse weather conditions.
Rescue teams have been battling challenging conditions to locate survivors and recover victims. The heavy rain and unstable ground have complicated search efforts, but officials remain committed to finding those still missing.
Accidents in illegal mines are frequent in Indonesia, as safety regulations are often ignored in the pursuit of precious minerals. Without proper equipment or training, miners and local villagers face significant risks while scouring abandoned sites for leftover gold ore.
The authorities have been urging communities to cease unauthorized mining activities, highlighting the dangers involved. This latest disaster brings to light the ongoing challenges in regulating unlicensed mining and ensuring the safety of those seeking livelihoods in the mining sector.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
