Watch: Mountain collapse in Congo reveals tonnes of copper, internet says ‘Ban Britain entry’

Geological event exposes huge copper reserves in the Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking calls for a ban on British mining companies

A massive mountain collapse in the Democratic Republic of Congo has revealed huge reserves of copper, leading to calls for a ban on British mining companies operating in the country.

The collapse, which occurred in the Kolwezi region, has exposed an estimated 100 million tonnes of copper, making it one of the largest copper deposits in the world.

The discovery has sparked outrage among environmentalists and human rights groups, who have long accused British mining companies of exploiting the Congo's natural resources while contributing little to the country's development.

In a statement, Global Witness, a UK-based human rights group, said the collapse was "a stark reminder of the devastating impact that mining can have on the environment and local communities."

"British mining companies have a long history of exploiting the Congo's natural resources, often with little regard for the environment or the rights of local people," said Global Witness campaigner Emily Armistead.

"The collapse of this mountain is a wake-up call for the UK government to take urgent action to ban British mining companies from operating in the Congo," she added.

The calls for a ban on British mining companies have been met with support from some members of the UK Parliament.

In a debate on the issue in the House of Commons, Labour MP Dan Carden said the collapse was "a tragedy for the people of the Congo, and a shameful indictment of the UK's mining industry."

"British mining companies have a long history of exploiting the Congo's natural resources, while leaving behind a trail of pollution and poverty," he said.

"It is time for the UK government to take action to ban British mining companies from operating in the Congo, and to invest in sustainable development in the country," he added.

The UK government has not yet commented on the calls for a ban on British mining companies in the Congo.