The Presidency of Central African Republic has confirmed that 37 people died in the recent gold mine collapse and expressed fear that the toll could be even higher.
"More bodies could not be found. There is a possibility of the death toll rising," the Presidency said in a statement on Monday.
"It was a small-scale mine exploited by a company that was seeking to set up its industrial equipment. This could have contributed to the unfortunate incident that took place," Prosper Ndouba, the spokesman for the presidency, told Xinhua on phone.
He said all the victims were of Central African Republic's nationality, adding that many others were injured in the accident.
Ndouba said the mining site is located at Ndassima in Bambari region, 440 km east of the capital Bangui. It is a zone that is rich in minerals, especially gold and iron, he disclosed.
The mine collapsed on Sunday due to heavy torrential rains. In total, 37 bodies were recovered from the scene of the accident. But the toll could be higher, the national radio said, citing eyewitnesses who had been interviewed.
Central African Republic's President Michel Djotodia sent his condolences to the families of the victims and declared three days of national mourning with flags flying at half mast on Tuesday.
The country boasts huge mineral potential, with at least 470 different minerals identified.
However, the exploitation of minerals, always done on small scale, is concentrated on diamond and gold.
Despite its rich resources, the country has witnessed numerous coups since attaining independence in 1960, the latest being in March when Djotodia led his forces to overthrow Francois Bozize.
Speaking 10 days ago in the Gabonese capital Libreville at a summit of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC), Djotodia announced, "After several months of conflict and looting, security was progressively returning to the country."
Wednesday 26 June 2013
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/africa/2013-06/25/c_132485455.htm
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