Sand mines bury two in Rubanda district
Police in Rubanda district are investigating circumstances under which two men in at Nyamuriro Wolfram mining site in Rubanda on the night of June 3. Two individuals lost their lives after being buried by sand during an illegal mining operation while the third one is still at large. They reportedly sneaked into the mining site to carry out unauthorized sand extraction.
According to police reports, the three individuals entered the site around 5:00 a.m. on June 3, they became trapped in a sand-filled hole leading to the death of two of them on the spot while the third person whose identity has not yet been established managed to escape unhurt and remains at large.
The victims have been identified as Acleo Bushato, 27 and Muhumuza both male residents of Kalere Trading Centre,Kara Parish in Muko subcounty.
Police reportedly received a distressing call from the officer in charge of Nyamuriro Mineral Police Post. The police team led by the District Police Commander (DPC) responded swiftly to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the bodies had already been retrieved from the site but discovered police guards and Onesmus, the former chairperson of KI3R Mining Company Limited at the scene.
In an effort to prevent further illegal activities, the police including officers from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) conducted community policing exercises in Kalere Trading Centre. Authorities are urging the public to desist from illegal mining practices that pose serious safety risks.
The police have launched investigations into the incident and are actively pursuing the suspect who escaped. They also continue to warn the community against unauthorized mining activities that endanger lives and property.
This tragic incident underscores the dangers associated with illegal mining operations in the region, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of mining laws and enhanced community awareness.
