A fatal landslide occurred at an open pit gold mine on Guadalcanal, the largest island in Solomon Islands, prompting a recovery and search operation. The body of Ashley Olo was found the day following the incident, though officials did not clarify whether he worked for the mine operator. A slip measuring 100 meters across an access road leading to the pit was the result of the geological event, and the underlying cause remained undetermined at the time officials made their initial statements.
Prime Minister Matthew Wale indicated the government would investigate whether the landslide resulted from inadequate mining practices, suggesting a potential need to review and strengthen industry regulations. The mine’s operator, Wanguo Gold Group Ltd, stated that none of its employees were injured or unaccounted for and that no equipment was damaged. The company added that mining operations resumed following the incident.
Local reporting indicated that some individuals reported missing were not formal mine workers but rather informal miners operating at the location. The site has generated previous controversy involving disputes between local landowners, unlicensed miners, and law enforcement. The mine, located near the capital Honiara, represents the country’s principal large-scale gold mining operation. Wanguo Gold Group, a Hong Kong-listed Chinese firm, has held majority ownership since 2019, with local landowners retaining a minority stake. An Australian company previously operated the facility before divesting it in 2015 due to concerns about vulnerability to flooding and other natural hazards.
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