'Los 33' File Lawsuit Against Chilean Government

By Michael Lopez

You remember "Los 33," right? The now world-famous Chilean miners who spent a whopping 69 days trapped underground last summer? Well now they're making headlines again, with a joint lawsuit directed straight at the Chilean government.

To be honest, this lawsuit actually only covers "Los 31". Two miners have opted out of the proceedings, saying that the government is not at fault for the accident. Juan Illanes and Raul Bustos believe it's the mine's owners who should have to pay up. A member of the suit, Mario Sepúlveda, went on to say that it's not the government that "Los 31" is after, but rather the country's National Geology and Mining Service.

Regardless, it would be Chile that cranks out the paycheck. According to reports, each man is seeking $540,000 in damages, making the grand total a whopping $16 million! It's all rather ironic when you consider that last August's rescue efforts cost the government $20 million.

Looking at the facts though, the men have a pretty good case. The mine that collapsed on them was over 100 years old and not properly inspected prior to the accident. Many assumed that "Los 33" had perished after the news first broke.

But amazingly, all of the miners survived the two-month ordeal, living without light, nourishment, and medical care. Let's hope both parties can come to a fair and reasonable agreement. But if they don't, the guys can still hopefully cash in on that Brad Pitt feature film.

How much money do you think the miners deserve for their ordeal? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, chile, Chilean Miners, Chisme, Lawsuits, Los 33