Lubumbashi: At least 32 people lost their lives when an overcrowded bridge at a copper mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo collapsed, as confirmed by a regional government official on Sunday. The incident occurred at the Kalando mine in Mulondo, located in the Lualaba province.

According to Anadolu Agency, Provincial Interior Minister Roy Kaumba Mayonde addressed reporters, stating that the collapse was caused by the 'hasty crossing of the diggers.' This rushed movement led the makeshift bridge to give way, plunging into a flooded ditch. Mayonde noted that an investigation is underway to identify those accountable for the tragic event.

Despite a strict prohibition against entering the site due to heavy rains and potential landslides, illegal diggers forcibly accessed the mine, Mayonde revealed. Earlier reports from local media suggested that as many as 70 individuals might have perished in the accident.

A video circulating online, captured from a distance, depicted a significant portion of the mine collapsing, with those on-site fleeing in panic. Rescue operations are ongoing, with many workers reportedly trapped under the debris.

Mining incidents are frequent in the Democratic Republic of Congo, attributed to unregulated mining activities, safety lapses, and inadequate infrastructure.