Deadly Landslide Caused by Rain at Illegal Gold Mine in Indonesia – 12 Killed, 2 Missing: KIRO 7 News Seattle

SUNGAI ABU, Indonesia — (AP) — Mud, rugged terrain, and a lack of telecommunications are hindering rescue efforts after a devastating landslide struck an unauthorized gold mining operation on Indonesia’s Sumatra Island, claiming the lives of at least 12 individuals.

The tragedy unfolded when villagers were engaged in gold mining activities in a remote village in the Solok district of West Sumatra province, only to be engulfed by mud cascading down the hills due to the heavy rains on Thursday.

While some managed to escape, local search and rescue agency chief Abdul Malik reported that eleven individuals sustained injuries, with a total of 12 bodies being recovered so far. The initial death toll of 15 was revised after communication challenges and the village’s seclusion affected the count. Two individuals are still missing under the debris.

Rescuers faced significant obstacles, as the disaster site was only accessible by a four-hour trek from the nearest settlement. The rough terrain, blocked roads, and the reluctance of locals to allow outsiders into their traditional mining areas further impeded the relief efforts.

Insight into Informal Mining Practices in Indonesia

Informal mining operations, like the one affected by this tragedy, are widespread in Indonesia, offering a precarious source of income for many workers amidst hazardous conditions. The use of toxic substances like mercury and cyanide, coupled with the lack of safety precautions, amplify the risks faced by miners, including landslides, flooding, and tunnel collapses.

Past Mining Accidents in Indonesia

This unfortunate incident adds to a series of mining-related accidents in Indonesia. In July, a landslide struck an illegal traditional gold mine in Gorontalo province, claiming the lives of 23 individuals. Similarly, in April 2022, a landslide at a gold mine in North Sumatra resulted in the deaths of 12 women. The country has witnessed tragic events like these, highlighting the dangers inherent in informal mining practices.

In February 2019, over 40 individuals were buried when a makeshift structure collapsed in an illegal gold mine in North Sulawesi, underscoring the persistent risks faced by miners in such operations.