Three Chinese Miners Found Dead

After six days of intensive rescue efforts, the lifeless bodies of the three Chinese miners who had been trapped in a chrome mine in Bulqiza since a gas explosion last Saturday, were found yesterday evening. Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister of Energy Damian Gjiknuri have failed to publicly comment on the desperate situation in the mine, or express their support.

The mine is part of a concession of Albchrome, a part of the Balfin group, which has received many government concessions in all fields of the Albanian economy.

President Bujar Nishani published a letter in which he expresses his condolences, calling upon state institutions to improve the safety of the mines.

During these days I have followed the difficult attempts made for their rescue with attention and concern, though also with hope. But yesterday evening I was informed about the horrible news that the lifeless bodies of the three had been found, which I accept with great bitterness.

Hereby I repeat my institutional, but also personal, appear that all the necessary technical measures are taken to assure that such serious and tragical events are no longer repeated in the galleries of Albanian mines, and that those who may have caused this are held responsible.