Due to the recurring deaths and accidents in mines and quarries, Uganda Police has urged mine and quarry owners to use better safety protocols at mines and quarries or else close them.
SCP Enanga Fred, the Police Spokesperson made the revelation on March, 25, 2024 while addressing the presser during the weekly security brief at Police Headquarters, Naguru.
Enanga cited four cases of death that occurred last week in different mines and quarries.
“Last week we registered four deaths at mines and quarries which calls for better safety protocols at mines and quarries. You are aware we’ve had a history where most of the people who die in mines and quarries are trapped and some suffocated to death,” Enanga said.
“The reason why we are taking additional interest is that we trust the territorial commanders to work with the respective districts and where there are no safety standards and protocols in place, they should ensure that those mines and some of the illegal mines and those quarries that are not safe for excavation and mining should be closed until additional investment in terms of safety measures are put in place,” Enanga added.
He noted that the deaths highlight the serious danger that mines and quarries have adding that there are no safeguards in the form of rescue equipment, electricity, constant supply of oxygen, there are no lifeguards.
Uganda Police promises to work together with the proprietors of these quarries and mines to prevent some of these dangers when we put safety measures in place.