Tashkent, Uzbekistan, July 17
By Demir Azizov- Trend:
An explosion at an abandoned gold mine in Ahangaran district of Uzbekistan's Tashkent province left 25 people dead, RIA Novosti reported July 17.
A major explosion took place in an abandoned mine belonging to Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Combine near the village of Kochbulak July 13.
The explosion occurred as a result of the conflict between two groups engaged in illegal gold mining at the site, according to the report.
"Residents of Kochbulak were coming here in groups to search for gold. On that day, two groups had a quarrel and the losers set fire to the pillars supporting the mine," one of the local residents said. Rocks fell on those who stood inside, while some were poisoned by toxic smoke, according to the resident.
The representatives of the country's official authority have not commented on the incident.
AMMC completed the reconstruction of the operating mines at Kyzyl Olma and Kochbulak fields in Tashkent province in 2007. The cost of the project stood at $50 million.
Edited by CN