Rubanda, Uganda – Two people have been confirmed dead after they were trapped in a sand mining hole covered by sand at the Nyamuriro Wolfram mining site in Rubanda district.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The victims have been identified as Acleo Bushato, 27, and Muhumuza, both residents of Kalere Trading Centre, Kara Parish, Muko Sub County, Rubanda District.
According to reports, on the night of Tuesday, June 3, 2025, three individuals sneaked into the site to carry out illegal sand mining, were trapped, resulting in two deaths on the spot, while the third person escaped unhurt.
The Kigezi Police spokesperson, ASP Elly Maate, confirmed that the incident was reported to the authorities by the in-charge of the Nyamuriro Mineral police post.
The District Police Commander (DPC) Rubanda, SP Abel Barugahare Kyoto, immediately organized a team of officers, including the Officer Commanding CID (OC CID), D/ASP Namunga Fatina, to visit the scene and conduct inquiries.
Upon arrival, the team found that the bodies had already been removed, and they later proceeded to Kalere Trading Centre to conduct community policing and restrain the public from engaging in illegal mining activities.
Maate added that the investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to identify the third individual who escaped the scene.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining activities, prompting ASP Elly Maate to urge the public to prioritize their safety and refrain from engaging in such activities.
“We urge the public to prioritize their safety and refrain from engaging in the perilous practice of illegal mining, which poses a significant threat to their lives. As the police, we remain committed to cracking down on such operations, ensuring that those found culpable face the full force of the law, and working tirelessly to prevent further tragic incidents from occurring.” Said Elly Maate.
Rubanda, a district endowed with rich mineral deposits, has unfortunately become a hotspot for illegal mining activities, putting the lives of its residents at great risk.
Despite the lure of minerals, unregulated mining practices have claimed lives, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and safety awareness.
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