The National Mining Agency (ANM) of Colombia has confirmed the deaths of nine people following an explosion at the La Ciscuda mine in Sutatausa, Cundinamarca, operated by Carbonera Los Pinos.
The explosion inside the mine impacted 15 workers, with six survivors transported to the Ubaté Regional Hospital for medical care.
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Immediately following the emergency, mining rescue teams coordinated by the ANM led rescue and verification operations in the area.
As part of its oversight responsibilities, the agency conducted a technical inspection on 9 April, providing recommendations to enhance safety measures.
Recommendations included improving inerting procedures due to coal dust; installing barriers at critical transfer points like hoppers; sealing abandoned areas to prevent gas buildup, particularly methane; and incorporating the risks of collapses, explosions and coal dust into the risk assessment.
The ANM has highlighted in inspections that coal deposits can accumulate gases like methane and coal dust, necessitating proper ventilation systems and continuous risk control measures.
Consequently, the agency has conducted ongoing campaigns focused on prevention, training and awareness in mining safety to enhance operational practices and risk management.
The ANM has reaffirmed its dedication to monitoring mining operations nationwide to protect workers’ lives and ensure safe mining practices.
In July 2025, a mechanical failure trapped 18 workers in an unlicensed gold mine for 18 hours before they were rescued, reported the BBC.
In one of the region’s most severe incidents, 21 people died in an explosion in Sutatausa in 2023, attributed to a methane gas buildup.
Sutatausa has served as a coal mining hub for decades, with many locals employed in the sector.
