Gold Mine Closure in Central African Republic After Fatal Collapse

Aug 21, 2026

70 min

Aug 21, 2026 14:31

Gold mine shut in Central African Republic after deadly collapse

## Tragic Incident at Zamboye Mining Site

A gold mine near the Cameroon border in the Central African Republic has been temporarily closed following a deadly landslide. The collapse at the Zamboye mining site resulted in the deaths of at least 49 individuals, although local reports suggest the number could be as high as 100.

## Details of the Collapse

The disaster occurred earlier this week, burying miners under mud and debris. The official death toll includes 34 Central Africans, 13 Cameroonians, and two Chadians. Seven injured individuals were transported to a hospital in Baboua, approximately 50 kilometers from the site.

## Rescue Efforts and Challenges

Rescue operations have been hampered by heavy rains, which have flooded parts of the mine and increased the risk of further collapses. Video footage from the scene shows a torrent of muddy water and earth moving through the open-pit mine, with onlookers gathered nearby.

## Safety Concerns in Informal Mining

The incident has highlighted ongoing safety concerns in the country's informal mining sector, where many operations lack adequate safety measures and government oversight. A similar collapse in June near the Cameroon border also resulted in fatalities.

## Government Response

In response to the tragedy, authorities have restricted access to the mine and deployed security personnel to the area. The closure of the mine aims to prevent further incidents and address safety issues in the region.

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