At least six dead after a mine shaft collapses in eastern DR Congo
## Mining Incident in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Mining Incident in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
A shaft collapse in the Rubaya coltan mine resulted in the death of six individuals on Tue, Feb 25, 2025.
Reports confirm that the bodies of three women and three men were recovered from the mine, located approximately 70 kilometers west of Goma. The collapse occurred in a section known as the Gasasa quarry, also leaving several others injured.
The incident follows a previous landslide at the site, which resulted in the deaths of at least 200 individuals at the end of January, following heavy rainfall.
A shaft collapse in the Rubaya coltan mine resulted in the death of six individuals on Tue, Feb 25, 2025.
The Rubaya site is a significant contributor to global coltan production, accounting for approximately 15-30% of the supply. It has been under the control of M23 rebels since April 2024. The movement reportedly earns about $800,000 monthly through a $7-per-kilogram tax on coltan production and sales.
The region is characterized by challenging mining conditions, with thousands of artisanal miners working under precarious circumstances, equipped mainly with basic tools and protective gear.
The situation in Rubaya remains tense, with a recent escalation in fighting. A drone strike on Feb 24 led to the death of M23 military spokesman Willy Ngoma. The M23 has maintained control over large areas of eastern DR Congo since its re-emergence in 2021, leveraging the region's resource wealth amid ongoing conflict.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
