Two Men Killed After Riverbank Embankment Collapses During Suspected Gold Mining in Jeli

KUALA LUMPUR,MAY,2026 – Two men were killed after being buried in a riverbank embankment collapse believed to have occurred during suspected gold mining activity in Jeli, Kelantan.

The incident happened at a tributary area inside Jerimbong Oil Palm Estate on Wednesday night, May 20. According to reports, the victims were buried after a soil embankment measuring about two metres high collapsed while they were believed to be carrying out gold mining activity in the area. One other person reportedly survived the incident.

Jeli Fire and Rescue Station chief Assistant Fire Superintendent Adni Ibrahim said the department received an emergency call at about 8.20pm informing them that several victims had been buried by soil. A rescue team was then deployed to the location to begin the search and recovery operation.

However, the rescue operation faced difficulties due to limited access into the plantation area. Firefighters were reportedly unable to enter the site using larger machinery because the route was too narrow. As a result, the team had to use a pick-up truck to reach the incident location.

The search operation began at around 9.20pm. The first victim was found at approximately 9.25pm, while the second victim was recovered later at around 11.18pm. Both victims, believed to be men in their 30s, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Adni said the operation was fully concluded at 11.40pm. Nine personnel from the Jeli Fire and Rescue Station were involved in the operation, assisted by a Fire Rescue Tender, an Emergency Medical Rescue Services vehicle, and a Rapid Rescue Vehicle.

Kosmo reported that the victims were believed to have been involved in illegal gold mining after authorities found a soil suction pump at the site. The discovery has raised concerns over unsafe and unregulated mining activity in riverbank and tributary areas, especially in remote plantation zones where emergency access can be difficult.

The tragedy highlights the serious risks linked to small-scale or suspected illegal mining activities. Riverbank areas can become unstable when soil is disturbed, especially if digging, water flow, or suction equipment weakens the embankment structure. When a collapse happens, victims can be buried quickly under heavy soil, making rescue efforts extremely challenging.

The incident also raises broader safety concerns over activities carried out near rivers, streams, and plantation areas without proper monitoring or protective measures. Such locations may appear accessible, but they can become dangerous when soil walls, slopes, or embankments are weakened by digging or water pressure.

For authorities, the case is expected to draw attention to enforcement against suspected illegal mining activity in Kelantan. The presence of equipment at the site may become part of further investigation to determine the exact nature of the activity and whether any laws were breached.

At the same time, the incident serves as a warning to the public about the danger of carrying out mining or excavation work without proper safety procedures. Even a relatively low embankment can become deadly if it collapses suddenly, especially when victims are standing inside or near a dug-out area.

As of the latest report, two men have been confirmed dead, one person survived, and the rescue operation has been completed. Authorities are expected to continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.