Landslide at Erzincan gold mine traps workers

The incident occurred at the mine's ore dump site, operated by Anagold Mining and SSR Mining. This site had previously faced scrutiny over allegations of cyanide leaks. The landslide, which took place around 2 p.m., has raised concerns about the safety of the trapped workers.

In response to the crisis, emergency services, including law enforcement, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), and medical teams, were immediately dispatched to the scene.

Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz expressed his concern, stating, "We extend our wishes for a swift recovery to all miners affected by the landslide in Erzincan, İliç. The government has mobilized all resources, and our teams have commenced search and rescue operations. We are determined to reach those unaccounted for."

Interior Minister Yerlikaya further detailed that search and rescue efforts are underway with 400 personnel to locate the missing individuals. "A landslide occurred at a mining firm around 2:28 p.m., leaving us without contact with nine workers. They are presumed trapped. We've deployed our Deputy Minister by plane to oversee the operations. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved," Yerlikaya added.

Addressing inquiries about previous complaints against the mine, Yerlikaya assured transparency and mentioned that prosecutors had been assigned to investigate.

Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced that the İliç Public Prosecutor's Office had initiated an investigation, appointing four prosecutors to the case.

AFAD issued a statement confirming the dispatch of personnel from multiple cities to assist in the rescue operations, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Governor Hamza Aydoğdu and Erzincan Mayor Bekir Aksun provided initial estimates of the trapped workers, highlighting the gravity of the disaster.

Local concerns about environmental hazards were amplified by Eşref Demir's comments to Cumhuriyet about previous legal actions taken against the mine and the potential spread of cyanide-contaminated soil following the landslide.

Geoscientist Prof. Dr. Süleyman Pampal highlighted the critical risk of contamination to the Euphrates River, calling for immediate preventive measures.

Anagold Mining Industry and Trade Inc. expressed deep regret over the incident, emphasizing the prioritization of employee health and safety and detailing the immediate activation of their emergency response plan. The company is committed to transparency and ongoing communication with public authorities and the community.

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges and risks in mining operations, prompting a reevaluation of safety protocols and environmental protections in the industry.