Cobalt Mine Collapse in Congo
A major accident occurred at the Kalando cobalt mine in Congo’s Lualaba province, killing at least 40 people.
The tragedy happened when a bridge collapsed during illegal mining operations, trapping many miners.
Several others were reported seriously injured, and rescue teams worked late into the night.
Cause of the Accident
Authorities reported that illegal miners attempted to enter the mine despite warnings due to heavy rains and landslide risks.
Soldiers fired shots to control the crowd, triggering a stampede.
A large number of miners rushed onto the bridge simultaneously, leading to its collapse.
Victims reportedly fell on top of each other, further increasing the death toll.
The government agency SAEMAPE confirmed that the accident was caused by overcrowding and panic during the stampede.
Ongoing Mining Dispute
The Kalando mine has long been the center of disputes between illegal miners, local cooperatives, and licensed operators.
Despite repeated government efforts to curb illegal activity, financial hardship and unemployment have driven locals to re-enter the mine.
This incident highlights the persistent dangers of illegal mining in the region.
Congo’s Cobalt Industry
Congo is the world’s largest producer of cobalt, a critical mineral for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles.
Chinese companies control 80% of the country’s cobalt production.
The mining sector has long faced allegations of child labor, unsafe working conditions, and corruption.
Impact and Response
Local authorities prohibited entry to the mine, citing safety risks, but enforcement remains challenging.
The disaster has renewed global attention on the unsafe conditions and regulatory failures in Congo’s mining industry.
This accident underscores the urgent need for better safety measures and regulation in cobalt extraction.
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