Deadly Landslide Hits Jade Mines in Northern Myanmar

A file picture dated 22 Nov. 2015 shows people searching for miners killed by a landslide at Hpa Kant jade mining area, Kachin State, northern Myanmar. Photo: Zaw Moe Htet / EPA

YANGON — As many as 50 people are feared dead after another landslide at gold and jade mines in northern Myanmar, a local official said Saturday.

The latest spill of waste rock accumulated during the mining process occurred near jade mines in Kachin state, 350 kilometres north of Mandalay, where at least 115 people were killed in a landslide in late November.

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"We started searching and rescuing people this morning, and found five bodies. According to witnesses, about 50 people are still missing," said Tint Swe Myint, administrator of Hpakant town.

The region around Hpakant produces up to 90 per cent of the world's jade, which is in high demand in neighboring China.

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Story: DPA