LUALABA: At least 32 people have died after a copper mine collapsed in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
According to an international news agency, a makeshift bridge inside the mine gave way on Saturday, causing the mine to cave in. At least 32 miners have been confirmed dead so far.
The incident occurred in the Lualaba province. The provincial interior minister said that rescue teams have recovered 32 bodies, and the search for additional victims is continuing.
Authorities explained that entry to the site had already been restricted because of heavy rainfall and the growing risk of landslides. However, a large number of illegal miners forced their way into the area. The temporary bridge they were using collapsed under the weight of the miners.
Reports indicate that nearly 200,000 people in Congo work in illegal mining operations, which are widely known for dangerous and unsafe working conditions.
