Colombian Miners Successfully Rescued After 18-Hour Ordeal Underground

All workers are safe following a major rescue operation that highlighted ongoing concerns about illegal mining practices in Colombia.

Eighteen miners trapped for approximately 18 hours in a gold mine in north-western Colombia were rescued early Friday morning, according to the Colombian government. The workers became ensnared in the El Minón mine, located in the Antioquia region, when a mechanical failure resulted in a structure intended to prevent landslides collapsing and obstructing the mine's primary exit.

Emergency crews conducted a rescue operation lasting 12 hours, concluding shortly after 03:00 local time (09:00 BST) on Friday. Officials from Colombia's National Mining Agency (ANM) reported that all trapped miners were found to be in good health upon their emergence from the mine.

Celebrations ensued as videos showed coworkers applauding and cheering when the miners ascended from the depths of the shaft. Yarley Erasmo Marin, a representative from a local miners' association, explained to AFP news agency that the containment measures failed, leading to the dire situation. During their ordeal, the miners received supplemental oxygen through hoses as they awaited rescue, as reported by local radio station ABC.

In the wake of the incident, local authorities highlighted concerns about unlicensed mining operations, with the mayor of Remedios submitting a letter pointing out that the mine did not have the requisite permits. The ANM urged those in the mining community to avoid illegal mining practices, emphasizing the risks presented not only to individuals' safety but also to public resources and the environment. Mining accidents remain a prevalent issue in Colombia, with numerous fatalities documented in recent years.