Seven workers trapped after mine collapse in southern Colombia: Video

Heavy machinery worked to clear the debris while firefighters, civil defence units and local volunteers coordinated operations, as community members gathered around the site, some cheering the rescuers on.

Authorities believe the miners are buried between 28 and 30 metres deep, but the search has become more difficult as water has begun flooding the tunnel, raising concerns for both those trapped and emergency teams. “Right now, we are still waiting for more help because it’s needed. We need more help, as we don’t know how many metres deep or in which exact area the missing people are located”, said Víctor Alfonso Valencia, coordinator of the Aires de Garrapatero Guard.

The collapse occurred in the early hours of Friday at an open-pit excavation that operates illegally, though local residents highlighted the desperation that drives people to such work. “Whether the mine is illegal or not, people are looking for work – it’s for their family’s livelihood. So don’t talk about it being illegal, because when people are hungry, we’re not going to let ourselves starve. People look for a way to eat, to provide for their families”, said community member and risk guardian Margarita Cayapu Méndez.

With uncertainty over how long the emergency might last and limited medical resources in the area, civil defence officers warned that logistical challenges remain, while families and residents continue urging authorities to deploy more assistance. Illegal gold mining remains a structural issue in Colombia, where government attempts to formalise the sector and eradicate illicit operations have met with only limited success.