Tragedy Strikes: Over 200 Lives Lost in Mine Collapse in DR Congo

Mon Feb 02 2026 15:55:36 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A devastating mine collapse in Rubaya, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, results in the deaths of over 200 individuals, including women and children. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in artisanal mining operations.

In a tragic incident, more than 200 people died in a mine collapse in Rubaya, eastern DR Congo, after heavy rains weakened the already precarious mining conditions. Many of the deceased were mining for coltan, a critical mineral used in electronic devices. This catastrophic event raises serious concerns about the maintenance and safety of mining operations under rebel control in the region.

More than 200 people have been killed in a mine collapse in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, rebel authorities have stated. The unfortunate event occurred in the town of Rubaya, where heavy rains led to the collapse. The exact death toll was initially uncertain as rescue efforts were underway.

Casualties included women and children who were mining coltan, a mineral essential for manufacturing electronics such as smartphones and computers. A former supervisor highlighted poor maintenance of the site, which contributed to the collapse and hindered rescue operations.

The fragile soil conditions exacerbated the dangers miners faced. Survivors, including about 20 people currently receiving hospital treatment, are grappling with the aftermath of the disaster.

Community members expressed profound grief over their losses. One individual spoke about the heart-wrenching loss of a cousin, who was described as a dedicated family man.

Local authorities, including Governor Erasto Bahati Musanga, who is affiliated with the M23 rebel group, visited survivors, emphasizing the humanitarian aspect of the tragedy. The mines in Rubaya are significant, containing around 15% of the world's coltan supply.

Investigations into the safety protocols and management of mining operations in the region, currently under rebel oversight, are expected as international scrutiny increases regarding the exploitation of such critical resources.