Death toll rises to 38 in Sudanese gold mine collapse

By Handan Kazanci

ISTANBUL (AA) - The death toll from a recent gold mine collapse in the Sudanese state of West Kordofan has risen to 38, according to local media on Wednesday.

Media reports confirmed the 38 deaths adding that some miners were still missing due to the accident, which occurred on Tuesday.

According to the reports, the wounded were taken to a nearby hospital while search and rescue efforts are ongoing.

Gold mining is a significant source of foreign exchange in Sudan, which lost three-quarters of its oil revenues and nearly 80% of its foreign exchange resources after South Sudan gained its independence in 2011. About 2 million people work in traditional mining jobs in the North African nation.

Meanwhile, Turkey on Wednesday expressed its condolences to Sudan over the deadly mine accident.

"We are deeply saddened to receive the news that 38 miners lost their lives as a result of the collapse in a mine in the West Kordofan state of Sudan on 28 December," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

“We wish Allah’s mercy upon those who lost their lives in the accident, extend our heartfelt condolences to their relatives as well as to the friendly and brotherly people of Sudan,” it added.