An air strike has reportedly killed dozens of gold prospectors in a remote area near the border between Sudan and Egypt, according to a rights group. At least 72 people were killed and more than 50 injured in the incident, which targeted an artisanal mining camp.

The attack occurred in a disputed region known for informal gold mining activities. A Sudan-based human rights organisation confirmed the fatalities, stating that the strike took place on Saturday. The precise circumstances surrounding the strike remain unclear, and no official claims of responsibility have been made.

The area, situated along the shared frontier of the two nations, is characterised by its remoteness and a history of unregulated mining operations. Artisanal miners often work in challenging and hazardous conditions, extracting gold from the earth using rudimentary methods. Such sites can attract large numbers of individuals seeking economic opportunities, making them vulnerable to various risks, including conflict and environmental dangers.

Despite the significant reported loss of life, neither the government of Egypt nor that of Sudan has issued any public statement or comment regarding the alleged strikes. This lack of official acknowledgement leaves many questions unanswered about the incident, its perpetrators, and the potential implications for the already tense border region.

The incident underscores the volatile nature of border areas and the dangers faced by those engaged in informal economic activities in contested territories. International observers continue to monitor the situation for further developments and official responses from the involved parties.