RT-Engels: 31-03-2026,
Officials have reported at least 73 miners died southwest of the capital Juba
Over 70 people have been killed and dozens injured in an attack on a gold mine in South Sudan, Vice President James Wani Igga said in a statement on Monday.
The assault took place over the weekend in Khor-Kaltan, Central Equatoria State, located roughly 70 kilometers southwest of the capital, Juba.
“At least 73 local miners have been tragically killed and 25 others seriously injured,” he said as quoted by several local news agencies. Igga called for an investigation and urged the authorities to identify those responsible, referring to them as “unidentified assailants.”
“Your grief is the nation’s grief. We stand with you in this dark hour and pledge that the blood of your loved ones will not be shed in vain,” Igga said, addressing the families of the victims.
Police spokesperson Kwacijwok Dominic Amondoc confirmed to AP that dozens of bodies were found at the scene, while some survivors fled into nearby bushland.
The mining region has frequently experienced clashes driven by competition over gold between artisanal miners, companies, and armed actors.
A security source, speaking with AFP on condition of anonymity, suggested the number of fatalities could be higher, estimating between 75 and 86 victims. According to the source, the assault could have been carried out by opposition forces loyal to Riek Machar, former first vice president,