Two dead as mining pit collapses

Two men have been killed after a pit collapsed in an abandoned mining area they were working in the Konawaruk area of Region Eight.

Dead are 36-year-old Deon Sproston called “Jersey Joe” of Mabaruma in the North West District, who was last known to be living at Lot 133 Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara; and another man only known as “Shawn” from Aishalton Village in Region Eight.

The incident reportedly occurred around 20:00hrs at MowasiBackdam, Konawaruk Potaro.

Police visited the area around along with a mines’ officer. The site is located some about five miles or one-hour walking distance from the Mowasi landing, which was owned by one Andre Britton, who died several years ago.

The men were said to be working in a pit with the wall about 20 feet high.

According to reports, several persons normally raided the land for raw gold, using a variety of implements, including spades and small engines.

Jersey Joe and Shawn were said to be working with others when heavy rain caused a large portion of the pit wall to collapse on the two men, covering them with large stones and gravel/mud.

Several persons went to their assistance and about two hours but they only reached the men when the men were already dead.

The bodies were taken to the Mahdia District Hospital about 15:30 hrs and pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor.

The bodies are presently at the said hospital mortuary awaiting post-mortem.