Key Points

A gold mine collapse in Sudan’s Red Sea State has left 11 dead and 7 injured. The Kersh Al-Feel mine had been ordered to shut down earlier due to safety risks. Sudan’s gold sector suffers from frequent accidents due to weak regulations. The UAE has been accused of benefiting from Sudan’s gold trade amid economic turmoil.

Key Points: 11 Dead in Sudan Gold Mine Collapse at Kersh Al-Feel Site

  • 11 dead and 7 injured in Kersh Al-Feel mine collapse
  • Mine was previously flagged for safety violations
  • Sudan’s gold sector plagued by poor infrastructure
  • UAE accused of profiting from Sudan’s gold trade
2 min read

11 killed, 7 injured in Sudan gold mine collapse

At least 11 killed and 7 injured in a gold mine collapse in Sudan’s Red Sea State, where safety concerns were previously ignored.

"The mine had been ordered to shut down due to safety concerns – Mineral Resources Company"

Khartoum, June 30

At least 11 people were killed and seven injured after a gold mine collapsed in northeastern Sudan, state-run Mineral Resources Company said.

The incident occurred at the Kersh Al-Feel mine in the Houeid area, between the cities of Atbara and Haya in Red Sea State, the company said in a statement on Sunday. It did not specify the date of the collapse, Xinhua news agency reported.

The company said the mine had previously been ordered to shut down due to safety concerns.

It pledged to continue monitoring mining activities and to improve safety standards, urging miners to comply with safety and environmental regulations.

Traditional mining accounts for a significant share of Sudan's gold production, but the sector has seen frequent accidents due to poor safety standards and aging infrastructure.

The company added that it had previously suspended work in the mine and “warned against its continuing activity due to its posing great risk to life”.

According to official and NGO sources, nearly all of the gold trade is funnelled through the United Arab Emirates, which has been accused of arming the RSF. The UAE denies it does so.

The war has shattered Sudan’s already fragile economy. About 1.5 million artisanal miners produce nearly 80 per cent of Sudan's gold, which totaled around 64 tonnes in 2024, according to official data.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Heartbreaking! The mine was already warned but still operated. Reminds me of the Jharkhand mining accidents. When will governments learn? These workers have families to feed - safety can't be compromised.
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Arjun K
Gold trade fueling conflicts again! UAE's involvement is concerning. India should be careful with gold imports from such sources. My condolences to the families who lost loved ones.
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Sarah B
As someone working in corporate safety in Mumbai, this is frustrating to read. Basic safety audits could prevent such tragedies. The company knew the risks but didn't act properly. Shameful!
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Vikram M
This is why we need international mining safety standards. 80% production from artisanal miners shows how informal the sector is. Reminds me of our coal mine issues before reforms.
K
Kavya N
So sad 😢 These workers probably had no other option but to work in dangerous conditions. The government should provide alternative livelihoods before shutting down mines.

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