City, Country — January 30, 2026 More Than 200 Killed in Coltan Mine Collapse in Eastern DRC, Officials Say.
A tragic incident occurred this week at the Rubaya coltan mine in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where over 200 people were killed following a mine collapse.
According to Lumumba Kambere Muyisa, the spokesperson for the rebel — appointed governor of the province where the mine is located, the disaster unfolded as the region experienced heavy rains, which are known to increase the risk of such accidents in artisanal mining operations.
The Rubaya mine is a significant source of coltan, accounting for approximately 15% of the world’s supply. This mineral is crucial for the production of tantalum, a heat-resistant metal widely used in mobile phones, computers, aerospace components, and gas turbines.
The mine has been under the control of the M23 rebel group since 2024.
The collapse, which took place on Wednesday, resulted in a massive landslide that buried miners, children, and market women. Some individuals were rescued, but they sustained serious injuries.
The exact number of fatalities remains unclear, with officials estimating at least 227 deaths.
An adviser to the governor, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation, confirmed the number of confirmed dead.
The United Nations has accused the M23 of exploiting the mine’s resources to fund its insurgency, an allegation that the Rwandan government, which backs the M23, denies.
The rebels, who aim to overthrow the government in Kinshasa and protect the Congolese Tutsi minority, have expanded their control over mineral — rich territory in eastern Congo over the past year.
The incident highlights the dangers associated with artisanal mining in the DRC, where safety standards are often lacking.
The country’s rich mineral resources have been a source of conflict and instability, with mining operations frequently linked to armed groups and the funding of conflicts. Regional officials and independent observers are calling for a thorough investigation into the causes of the mine collapse and for improved safety measures in the artisanal mining sector.
The government of the DRC and international bodies are expected to address the broader issues of artisanal mining and conflict minerals in the aftermath of this disaster. Further details are expected as the situation develops.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
