More Than 200 Killed in Coltan Mine Collapse in Eastern DRC

On January 30, 2026, a catastrophic landslide struck the Rubaya coltan mine in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in the deaths of at least 200 people, including miners, women, and children who were working at the site. Lumumba Kambere Muyisa, the spokesperson for the region's rebel-appointed governor, confirmed the tragic toll, which may rise as rescue efforts continue.

The collapse occurred amid severe rainy conditions, causing the unstable ground to give way while numerous miners were inside the pit. Local officials reported that up to 20 individuals were rescued and are receiving treatment for serious injuries at nearby health facilities. Eyewitness accounts described the state of the mines as perilous, with poorly constructed tunnels and a lack of maintenance leading to previous landslides.

Rebel authorities controlling the mine, specifically the M23 group, have temporarily halted artisanal mining in the area and ordered the evacuation of nearby residents. The M23 rebels seized control of Rubaya and its resources in 2024, and the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed solidarity with the victims' families while attributing the mine's unsafe conditions to the rebels' actions.

The mine is a significant site for coltan extraction, producing around 15% of the world’s supply of this valuable mineral, which is essential for manufacturing electronic devices like smartphones and computers. The area has a history of similar incidents, raising concerns about the safety protocols and human rights violations associated with rebel control of vital resources.

As rescue efforts proceed, the international community is urged to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo, where violence and exploitation significantly impact civilian lives. The situation underscores the urgent need for reforms in mining practices and safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.