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Another illegal gold mine has collapsed in South Sudan, increasing the death toll to 82. The incident occurred in the Sudd region of South Sudan, which has been in civil war for four years, and the collapse reportedly happened on the night of the 15th. According to local media, by the afternoon of the 16th, rescuers had recovered 82 bodies, and dozens are still reported missing.
The accident appears to have started in one shaft and spread to interconnected shafts. However, the only equipment available for rescue operations is a single forklift, making it difficult to remove the fallen earth and debris. South Sudan is a major gold-producing country, but frequent mine collapses occur due to the lack of adherence to safety standards.
Notably, the Sudd region, where this accident occurred, is controlled by the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF), making official rescue operations virtually impossible. According to the UN, illegally mined gold is reportedly being used to fund the rebels.