Tragedy Strikes Artisanal Gold Mine in Rebel-Dominated Eastern Congo

At least 10 people have died following the collapse of an artisanal gold mine in rebel-controlled eastern Congo. The disaster occurred at the Luhihi mine, South Kivu, and has been linked to climate-induced natural disasters. The region is under the control of M23 rebels, exacerbating safety issues.

An artisanal gold mine has tragically collapsed in eastern Congo, a region dominated by rebels. The accident took the lives of at least 10 people, according to authorities, late Wednesday.

The collapse at the Luhihi mine in Kabare territory was attributed to a 'natural disaster caused by climate change,' according to Dunia Masumbuko Bwenge, the rebel-appointed vice-governor of South Kivu. Frequent floods and landslides have plagued this area, adjacent to Rwanda.

Adding to the tragedy, Jean-Jacques Purusi, South Kivu's former governor, stated that safety regulations were not followed at the artisanal mine. M23 rebels, supported by 4,000 Rwandan troops, have controlled parts of eastern Congo, intensifying the long-standing conflict that has displaced over 7 million people.

(With inputs from agencies.)