Two die, 28 injured in Kayonza mine accident

Two people died on the spot while 28 others were injured after a mine caved in on Wednesday in Rwinkwavu mines, Kayonza District. The victims were employees of Rwinkwavu Wolfram Mining Company.

Inspector of Police (AIP) Emmanuel Kayigi, the Deputy Police spokesman, Eastern Region, said investigations are ongoing to ascertain the cause of the accident.

“We are carrying out thorough investigations. We are told the victims had insurance, but we are yet to know the type of insurance cover they possessed,” he said.

Jean Paul Mudenge, an officer in charge of environmental issues, including mining in the district, attributed the death to haphazard mining.

He faulted mining companies for not reporting such cases in time.

“I got the news from a third party. Mine owners tend to keep quiet over such tragedy,” he said.

“Mining companies have insurances for workers. Rwf1 million is given in reparations for every person who dies and the company covers burial expenses,” he added.

Martin Kampayana, a mine official, attributed the accident to heavy downpour, which he said, loosened the ground.

Mob justice

Meanwhile, five grassroots leaders were arrested yesterday in Rwamagana District after they allegedly got involved in mob justice in Karenge Sector.

Vincent Turatsinze was beaten to death, while Jean Damascene Mbarubukeye was left unconscious by an irate mob.

All the suspects, including a cell leader and Community policing officers, were detained at Nzige Police Station.

The incident was also confirmed by AIP Kayigi, who doubles as the Regional Judicial Police officer.

“We cannot tolerate people who take the law into their hands. It is even worse when leaders are involved,” Kayigi said.

The suspects will be charged with murder which attracts life jail term on conviction.

The New Times

UM– USEKE.RW