A rockfall in one of the underground tunnels of Sukari Gold Mine in the Eastern Desert resulted in the death of Abdel Rahman Nabil Mahmoud, a mine worker and the injury of five others, said a statement by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (MoPMR).

The injured workers were immediately transferred to a Hospital in Marsa Alam to receive the necessary medical care. Preliminary medical reports indicated that their conditions are stable. Underground operations in the affected area have been temporarily suspended until the required procedures are completed and all safety requirements and measures are confirmed before work resumes, the MoPMR noted.

Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, mourned the death of Mahmoud, extending his condolences to his family, relatives, and colleagues. He also directed that all necessary support be provided to the worker’s family.

He further instructed the relevant authorities to ensure that the injured workers receive full medical care and that their health conditions are continuously monitored.

Badawi also directed the Mineral Resources and Mining Industries Authority (MRMIA) to form a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, determine its causes, and review occupational health and safety procedures in place at the mine. The committee will also identify the necessary measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Sukari Gold Mines is a joint venture between US-based AngloGold Ashanti and the Egyptian government. Located about 750 kilometers (km) from Cairo and 25 km from Marsa Alam on the Red Sea, Sukari gold mine comprises both an open-pit and an underground mining operation. Sukari is Egypt’s first modern commercial gold mine and by far its largest operating gold mine.