**At Least 100 Feared Dead After Gold Mine Collapse in Central African Republic**
*Published on 19/08/2026 - 17:43 GMT+2*
At least 100 individuals are feared dead following a catastrophic landslide at a gold mine in the Central African Republic (CAR) on Tuesday. The incident occurred at the Zamboye mining site, located near the border with Cameroon, and is believed to have been triggered by the collapse of several underground tunnels where miners were working.
Laurent Ngon Baba, an elected official from the nearby town of Baboua, stated that the full extent of the casualties is still being assessed. "At this stage, it's difficult for us to establish a formal toll," he remarked, acknowledging the chaotic conditions at the site.
Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene as a significant portion of earth gave way, engulfing miners in its wake. One miner, who was present during the incident, described the event as "catastrophic," emphasizing that the ground completely collapsed and buried individuals beneath it.
Search and rescue operations are currently underway at the site, with local authorities and emergency services working diligently to locate any survivors. Video footage circulating on social media appears to show the moment the earth shifted, leading to the tragic landslide that has left the community in shock.
In response to the disaster, Gregoire Mvongo, the governor of the eastern Cameroon region, confirmed that Cameroonian authorities are collaborating with their counterparts in the Central African Republic to manage the aftermath of this tragedy. The joint effort aims to provide assistance and support to those affected by the disaster.
The collapse highlights ongoing safety concerns in artisanal mining operations, which are prevalent in the region. Such mines often lack the necessary infrastructure and safety measures to protect workers, leading to dangerous conditions. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by miners in pursuit of precious resources.
As search and rescue efforts continue, the local community is grappling with the emotional toll of the disaster, mourning the loss of lives and hoping for the safe recovery of any remaining individuals trapped beneath the rubble.
The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.