The Minerals Protection Unit (MPU) has closed an illegal gold mining site in Namayingo District following a mine collapse that trapped six miners underground, raising fresh concerns about safety in unregulated mining operations.
The operation was conducted on June 2 at Mabuka Village in Bukana Sub-county. Authorities said the site was shut down to prevent further accidents and protect people engaged in illegal mining activities.
According to the MPU, the closure followed an incident on May 31 when part of the mine caved in during mining operations, trapping six people underground at about 1 p.m. All six were later rescued.
Police said the collapse highlighted the dangers associated with illegal mining, particularly at sites operating without proper safety measures and regulatory oversight.
“The operation was aimed at protecting the lives of individuals who have been engaging in illegal mining activities that pose significant risks to their safety,” the MPU said in a statement.
Authorities said enforcement operations are continuing, including at night, to ensure that all miners vacate the site and that mining activities do not resume.