A fire at a gold mine in southern Peru has killed 27 people. According to authorities, the reason for the fire was a short circuit. Fatal accidents happen again and again in Peruvian mines.
A fire in a mine in Peru has killed 27 people. Three rescue workers were injured. This was announced by the authorities there. According to the local government, the fire was caused by a short circuit.
The owner of the small mine had told police the miners were suffocated by the fire about 500 meters from the mine entrance. There was initially no official statement from the operating company Yanaquihua.
Accidents in mines are not uncommon
The accident happened in the Arequipa region in southern Peru. Pictures circulated on social networks and local media showing plumes of dark smoke pouring from the mine site.
The South American country is the world’s largest gold producer and second largest copper producer. Several fatal accidents occur in mines every year. Last year, 38 people died nationwide.