At least 14 people were killed, two seriously injured and four others are still missing after a rock slide hit an ore mine in northern Yen Bai Province on Friday, local authorities said.
According to chairman of Mu Cang Chai District, Giang A Tong, the victims were all from H'Mong ethnic minority in La Pan Tan Commune, Mu Cang Chai District, and were on their way to collect ore at a mine in neighbouring Cao Pha Commune when the slide occurred at around 9am.
"We have recovered 16 victims, 14 of them were dead and two others seriously injured. We are searching for about four more victims," Tong said.
Rescue activities have been facing difficulties because of the sloping, remote terrain and lack of communications. More than 100 policemen have been mobilised to help with the effort.
“We have been supporting affected families with VND 4.5 million (USD215) for each casualty, and providing VND 1.5 million (USD72) and aid to those injured," Tong added.
He also said that, although this is the first rock slide in this specific area, other places in his district have had them before, mainly caused by heavy rains.
The ore mine covers 2.4 ha and was licensed for operation to Thinh Dat Company Ltd, in 2010.
Some more photos of the site:
