WeChat blunder leads to deadly mine blast

An investigation into a deadly mine accident in the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has blamed faulty communication for the blast that claimed three lives last year.

A report released Tuesday by the Chongzuo government revealed that on Nov 13, 2023, a blasting operation at the Gaofengshan mine site went tragically wrong. The investigation found that Guangxi Shuntuo Construction Engineering Co failed to develop proper technical designs and work plans for the operation, which involved 10 personnel.

During safety procedures, blasting technician Jiang Yongchun informed others via a WeChat group message that his walkie-talkie had lost power. He then used the messaging app to inquire about the locations of other personnel.

A critical miscommunication occurred when another blasting technician, Jiang Yongdong, misinterpreted the information. Believing safety precautions were complete, Jiang Yongdong initiated the detonation. Roughly 20 seconds later, Jiang Yongchun, unaware of the premature detonation, detonated explosives from his separate location.

Approximately 10 minutes after the blasts, a buried pickup truck was discovered under the debris heap. The accident resulted in three fatalities, the destruction of the pickup truck, and an estimated 4.2 million yuan ($581,000) in economic losses.

The investigation concluded that Jiang Yongdong violated regulations by relying on WeChat for communication instead of the designated walkie-talkie system. He is further faulted for detonating explosives without receiving confirmation that all personnel were clear.

Based on the report's findings, both Jiang Yongdong and Jiang Yongchun are recommended to face criminal charges. The report also details administrative punishments for six other individuals deemed responsible for the accident.