Phakant, 22 April

At least two jade scavengers were killed in a landslide collapse at a jade mine in Phakant Township, Kachin State on 20 April, the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

The 300 ft. high slag heap collapsed at a jade mine which belongs to the Paing Phyo Thiha Mining Company near Taungpyo Village in Phakant Township at around 7:30 a.m. on 20 April when many people were scavenging in the jade mine. Members of a combined squad rushed to the scene of accident to carry out a search operation by using two backhoes soon after they have received information about the landslide.

Two corpses identified as Hla Ko Min, 35, and Myo Ko, 25, were discovered under debris. Search operations are underway by the local social organizations. A probe has been ordered to investigate into the case, according to the local police station.—MOHA

Translated by Kyaw Htike Soe