A tragic accident occurred in the Puno region of the Andes mountains in Peru, where a gold mine collapse resulted in the death of seven workers, as reported by the police on Thursday.
General Enrique Monroy, the police chief of Puno, informed Agence France-Presse (AFP), “We have received reports so far of seven workers killed due to a collapse inside a mine in the village of La Rinconada.”
The incident took place on Thursday morning at the Lagunas de Oro mine, situated at an altitude of 5100 meters above sea level. General Monroy explained, “It appears to be a workplace accident. The collapse occurred about one and a half kilometers from the entrance of the mine.”
He further noted, “The bodies have been recovered, showing signs of fractures and asphyxiation.”
This region in southeastern Peru is known for its numerous gold mines, many of which operate illegally.
The Puno region, where this tragic event occurred, is a significant area for gold mining in Peru. The high altitude and remote location of these mines often present challenges in terms of safety and accessibility. The fact that many mines in this region operate without legal authorization further exacerbates the risk factors associated with mining activities.
The occurrence of such accidents highlights the need for stricter safety measures and regulation in the mining industry, especially in regions like Puno. Ensuring the safety of mine workers must be a priority, and this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that these workers face daily.
As the authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collapse, there is a growing call for action to improve mining safety standards in Peru. This tragic event is not only a loss of life but also a signal to the industry and the government to prioritize worker safety and regulate mining practices more effectively.
