Residents of Mukura Sector, Rutsiro District, are still coming to terms with the death of 54-year-old Silver Biziruwihoreye, who passed away on July 2. According to the Police, he was killed by a rockfall as he illegally mined for coltan. This latest fatality comes on the heels of other recent fatal incidents involving illegal miners. A Muhanga man died on June 19 when a cassiterite mine caved in. A month earlier, another illegal miner drowned as he tried to wash minerals he had unearthed illegally from a mine in Rutagara Cell, Muhanda Sector of Ngororero District. The Police have advised the mining fraternity to increase their surveillance around their concessions in order to deter illegal mining activities which are fatal and dangerous to the environment. The Western Province Police Spokesperson, Superintendent Emmanuel Hitayezu, says mining firms should increase sensitisation programmes about the dangers associated with illegal mining, provide protective gear and adequate training to their workers. “Mining companies should regularly conduct training programmes on mining hazards to mitigate risks and promote safety. They should also enhance the professionalism of their workers and those who are new to the field. Illegal mining tends to happen at night; therefore, companies should ensure that they have tight security around their concessions,” he added. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
