The Rwanda National Police (RNP) has warned against illegal mining activities in the country, after a miner died in a mining site in Mwurile sector, Rwamagana District, over the weekend.

Mechaque Mujyarugamba, 56, died after a landslide caved in while mining coltan, says a Police statement to The New Times.

"The National Police strongly warns all illegal miners in Mwulire, Musha and other areas with minerals that it is prohibited due to the consequences and risks.

Anyone who would like to invest in mining should form an association and get appropriate licenses from concerned authorities,” reads part of the statement.

Police Spokesperson Supt. Eric Kayiranga also noted that: "Illegal mining is punishable by the law. Security officials and local leaders should be vigilant on this issue to bring to book any culprits. People need to understand the dangers involved”.

Christophe Bazivamo, the Minister of Lands and Environment also recently appealed to Musha and Mwurile sector residents to immediately stop the illegal mining of Cassiterite in the area.

Bazivamo announced that mining activities in Musha and Mwurile was banned until competent investors are found.

Last month, 11 other illegal miners died after being trapped in one of the mines in Mwurile sector.

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