Gold mine collapses in Shinyanga, 25 trapped

SHINYANGA: AT least 25 people are feared to have been trapped underground after a section of the Nyandolwa Gold Mine in Mwongozo Village, Mwenge Ward, in Shinyanga Region collapsed during maintenance operations.

The incident occurred yesterday and was confirmed by Shinyanga District Commissioner Mr Julius Mtatiro, who visited the site.

He urged residents to remain calm and patient as rescue operations continue.

“We ask the public to stay calm. Efforts are underway to ensure that everyone trapped is reached and rescued,” he said at the scene.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as rescue teams intensify their efforts to save the remaining workers.

Briefing members of the Regional and District Security and Safety Committee, the Chief Inspector of the Gold Mine workers’ group and owner of the mine, Mr Fikiri Mnwagi said that three mining shafts were under repair when the accident happened.

Mr Mnwagi explained that the collapse was triggered by what appeared to be a ground tremor, causing the soil to sink and bury 25 workers and technicians who were inside the shafts conducting maintenance.

“We have initiated rescue efforts and communication with six workers in shaft number 106 has been successful. As of late today (yesterday), three individuals have been rescued. The operation is ongoing,” Mnwagi said.

He noted that there has been no contact with those in shafts 20 and 103, but rescue teams are working tirelessly. An additional shaft is being dug to reach the remaining victims and to supply them with water and food.