Bukuru has become the scene of yet another heart-wrenching tragedy tied to the dangerous world of illegal mining.

A high-ranking politician, Amb. Austin Mang Gadong, is alleged to be running an unlawful mining operation on family property rich with tin deposits.

For years, the area has been plagued by reckless mining activities—an issue Governor Caleb Mutfwang has been working to address.

According to reports, the politician controls a network of individuals who mine the property, with the proceeds allegedly going to him. However, in a dangerous twist, some boys often return at night to carry out unauthorized mining for their own gain. These young men have now become part of a bigger issue: the unchecked spread of illegal mining.

Months ago, disaster struck when two boys under the age of 25 lost their lives after a mining hole collapsed on them. They had been digging without permission from the politician. The event was quietly brushed under the rug, leaving the grieving families to mourn in silence. Many had hoped this tragic event would bring an end to the illegal activities, but the mining continued unabated—until another horrifying incident occurred just yesterday.

This time, a group of four boys, including some from the politician’s mining group, returned for another round of late-night digging. When Amb. Austin Mang Gadong found out, he reportedly arrived at the scene with armed associates. They allegedly trapped the boys by blocking the exits to the mining site and began throwing stones while firing shots.

In a shocking and deliberate act, the politician is accused of setting a car tire on fire and pushing it into the hole. Already deprived of proper ventilation, the toxic fumes caused the boys to suffocate. One boy was found dead, his body showing clear signs of asphyxiation, while three others narrowly escaped. Two of those who escaped are in critical condition, battling for their lives.

Anger and heartbreak spread throughout the community. Furious residents, led by women and youths, carried the boy’s body to the politician’s residence, demanding justice. Tensions escalated, prompting the intervention of soldiers to prevent further unrest. The young man, whose mother had tragically passed away last December and who had a deaf father, now lies in a morgue. Meanwhile, Amb. Austin Mang Gadong is reportedly on the run.

As the community reels from this latest tragedy, the question on everyone’s lips remains: where are the authorities? How long will those in power continue to exploit the vulnerable and suppress their voices? The people of Bukuru are calling for justice—justice for the lives lost, justice for the oppressed, and an end to this cycle of impunity.

May the departed rest in peace.

Credit: Charles the Talking Pen