Rutsiro: Three die after entering unauthorized mining site

By The Inspirer. 

Three men—21-year-old Jean de Dieu Bikorimana, 26-year-old Damascène Ndacyayisenga, and 43-year-old Daniel Nibayavuge—died after a mining site that had been unauthorized for seven months collapsed in Rutsiro District.

The tragic incident occurred in Karumbi Village, Kirwa Cell, Murunda Sector. Authorities had suspended all activities at the site on March 30, 2025, due to serious safety risks and fears of possible collapse.

According to local reports, Bikorimana was illegally mining for minerals inside the unauthorized site on Wednesday, October 15, when the ground suddenly gave way, burying him. Two others who entered the pit to rescue him were also trapped and killed.

A resident told Imvaho Nshya that Bikorimana had been working with others when the collapse occurred. “He was inside when the pit caved in. His colleagues managed to escape, but he was buried,” the witness said.

Rescue teams later recovered Bikorimana’s body, but the other two victims were found the following day. “On October 16, we continued the search and discovered the remaining two also dead. All three bodies were taken to Murunda Hospital for post-mortem examination,” the resident added.

Rwanda National Police spokesperson for the Western Province, SP Sylvestre Twajamahoro, confirmed that the site had been declared unauthorized since March 30. He condemned the illegal mining activity, noting that residents had been repeatedly warned about the dangers of entering restricted areas.

“They must be cautious, especially during the rainy season when the soil becomes unstable and prone to collapse,” said SP Twajamahoro. “Such incidents are entirely avoidable. Those who engage in unauthorized mining put their lives at serious risk because no one is accountable for their safety.”

He urged legally registered mining companies to adhere to safety standards and ensure their employees are insured. “Licensed operators should train their workers on safety and make sure everyone is covered by insurance,” he added.

Twajamahoro said police and local authorities will continue to educate residents, close down unauthorized mining sites, and monitor licensed companies to ensure compliance with safety and legal requirements.

Source: Imvaho Nshya.