Gold mine collapse kills dozens in Central African Republic

A collapse at a small mining site near the Cameroon border in the Central African Republic has left dozens dead, and rescue teams are still working to reach survivors. The incident occurred in a remote area of the eastern province, where informal gold mining is common. Preliminary reports from local authorities indicate that at least 35 people were trapped beneath the collapsed shaft, with several others injured.

The Central African Republic’s Ministry of Mines has coordinated with the national armed forces and local civil protection units to conduct a multi‑stage rescue operation. Heavy equipment, including hydraulic lifts and breathing apparatus, has been deployed to stabilize the site and extract victims. Humanitarian organizations have also been called in to provide medical assistance and emergency supplies to the affected communities. The region’s limited infrastructure and the remote location have complicated the response, but officials say the rescue effort is progressing steadily.

As of the latest update, rescue crews have managed to reach several trapped miners, but the total number of survivors remains uncertain. Authorities have urged the public to stay away from the site for safety reasons and are working to secure the area while continuing the search and recovery mission. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in the country’s informal mining sector, where inadequate safety measures frequently lead to accidents.