Two dead, scores missing after Myanmar jade mine disaster

Rescue operation taking place after a landslide at a jade mine in the Hpakant area of Kachin State, Myanmar on Dec 22, 2021. Myanmar Fire Services Department/Handout via Reuters

YANGON (AFP): At least two people have died and dozens remain missing after a deadly Myanmar jade mine landslide, with rescuers warning Thursday (Dec 23) they did not expect to find any survivors.

Scores die each year working in the country's lucrative but poorly regulated jade trade, which sees low-paid migrant workers scrape out gems highly coveted in neighbouring China.