The South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the death of 11 mine workers and injuries affecting colleagues at the Impala Platinum Mine Shaft 11 in Rustenburg, North West Province on Tuesday.
According to the statement released by the Spokesperson to the President, Vincent Magwenya, as South African leader offered his deep condolences to the families of the deceased mineworkers.
He also extended his thoughts to the management and staff of Implats and wished the injured workers, especially those who are in critical care, a full recovery.
Ramaphosa called on all stakeholders to assist the Chief Inspector of Mines in the investigation that will be undertaken in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act.
The South African President said, “This process is vital to protecting mineworkers in line with the industry’s Zero Harm objectives and enabling operational continuity in mines”.
Sabs News reports that eleven people have died at Impala Platinum Mine in Rustenburg in the North West following a tragic incident last night.
The mining company says a number of people sustained serious injuries during a serious safety incident at their operations in Rustenburg.
Indications are that a winder rope at the company’s 11 shaft snapped. This rope is connected to a personnel conveyer which hoists employees up and down the shaft.
The company spokesperson, Johan Theron, says 80 workers were affected and they are this morning wrapping up the rescue operation.
“Tragically, 11 people have succumbed to their injuries. 42 have been admitted to hospital at this stage in Rustenburg and it looks like there were around 80 people at the time of the incident in the conveyer system.”
Over 100 miners are reportedly still trapped underground. Emergency personnel are currently at the scene trying to rescue the trapped workers.