23 Miners Trapped in Colombian Gold Mine Rescued After 43 Hours—A Stark Reminder of Mining Risks and Regulatory Failures

In northern Colombia's Antioquia region, a harrowing drama unfolded as 23 miners were rescued alive after being trapped for 43 hours in the La Reliquia gold mine. Though applause greeted their emergence, this incident raises serious questions about mining safety protocols and enforcement—issues that Americans must understand as global supply chains increasingly affect our economic security. The collapse of the mine's main entrance was attributed to "geomechanical failure," underscoring the precarious conditions under which much of Colombia’s gold is extracted. While the Canadian-owned Aris Mining Corp operates the site through a local cooperative, it is clear that oversight challenges persist....