Miner Found Dead in 20-Feet Deep Tunnel in Negros Occidental
A tragic incident occurred in Sitio Arum, Barangay Talacagay, Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental on Tuesday, January 9, when a miner was discovered dead inside a 20-feet deep tunnel.
The victim was identified as Ignacio Ortega, 42, a native of Toboso town, Negros Occidental who was temporarily staying in Barangay Talacagay.
According to Police Major Jaynick Bermudez, the town police chief, the victim and his cousin had burned a stone using charcoal inside the tunnel on Monday, January 8. Due to the thick smoke, they left the tunnel, but the victim returned alone the following day.
The victim was later found by his cousin unconscious. Ortega was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead. Bermudez stated that the victim likely suffocated from the thick smoke, and police are trying to determine why they burned a stone in the tunnel.
The mining activity in the area was reportedly illegal, although police did not reach the specific area of the incident. Barangay officials have been informed and will refer the incident to the local government for further action.
The unfortunate death of the miner has raised concerns about the safety of mining activities in the area, prompting authorities to take appropriate measures to address the issue.
