Rescue operations are currently being conducted in a remote community in northern Ethiopia where over than 20 artisanal miners are currently trapped in a cave, the media reported.
Local officials informed the Western media that the rescue efforts have been hindered by the challenging landscape of the area.
Since it is impossible for the miners to gain assistance from machines due to the village's topography, more than 500 residents are reportedly attempting to dig openings for them.
Although rescue attempts have been unsuccessful so far, the officials are still optimistic about finding survivors, recalling a previous similar case in which a miner was found alive after being buried in a cave for seven days, the media said.
Opal deposits were first discovered in 2008, making Ethiopia the second largest supplier of opals worldwide, according to the reports.
In November 2023, officials from the South Wollo Zone acknowledged that the production of opal was hindered due to unrest in the region. The zone reported that the disturbance was adversely affecting the regional economy and the livelihoods of those involved in the industry, the local media said.
Zone authorities reportedly stated that in the previous quarter, a total of 6,532 kg of opal were shipped to global markets, generating a value of more than $106,000.
Nevertheless, the industry is facing significant challenges due to the absence of a legal framework, a shortage of competent manpower, ongoing conflicts, and a lack of private investment, the local reports claimed.