Three illegal workers were killed and two injured when a mine collapsed in Mozambican province of Cabo Delgado Saturday, Xinhua reported.
The accident occurred in the Nampa mine in the muddy Montepuez district, a place rich in ruby, turmalines and other precious stones, which attract both local and foreign nationals for digging.
It was not the right time for people to be involved in the mining activities here, said Eusebio Celestino, an administrator of the neighbouring Ancuabe district.
It has been raining here since December, Noticias daily reported.
It is reported that Pakistanis, Thai and Tanzanian nationals are accused of illegal panning and purchase of the stones in the province.
