Sudan Mine Disaster: A gold mine collapse in Sudan’s West Kordofan has killed at least 82 people, with dozens more feared trapped as rescuers struggle with limited equipment and rudimentary tools. Venezuela Dealmaking: Heeney Capital signed a landmark gold mining concession with Venezuela’s government and CVM for a major project in El Callao, aiming to unlock up to $1bn in investment and jobs. EU Competition Watch: The European Commission flagged potential competition concerns over MMG’s planned acquisition of Anglo American’s nickel business, warning it could divert low-carbon ferronickel supply and raise costs for European stainless steel. Queensland Governance: Proposed Queensland reforms would narrow who can object to mining projects and shift decisions away from automatic court referrals toward a ministerial referral process, drawing criticism that it weakens independent scrutiny. Gold Market Movers: Australian gold stocks stayed in focus as rate expectations and bullion moves pressured names like Newmont and Northern Star, while investors tracked broader precious-metals sentiment. Critical Minerals Funding: Osisko Critical Minerals announced a $100m private placement of special warrants to fund exploration and development in New Brunswick. Pakistan Placer Gold Probe: Allegations of illegal placer gold extraction and cross-border smuggling in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa have sparked calls for investigation and tighter enforcement. Community vs Mining: In Nevada, Prince Silver held community meetings near Pioche as exploration continues, with residents pressing on water, noise, dust, wildlife, and reclamation.