Trapped Implats miner found dead

One of the two mineworkers trapped underground at Impala Platinum Holdings Limited mine in Rustenburg has been found dead.

Rustenburg – One of the two mineworkers trapped underground at Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats) mine in Rustenburg, North West was found dead on Thursday, the company said.

“The body was found in an area with extremely unstable ground conditions and has not yet been recovered. The search and rescue teams are continuing with their relentless efforts to find the second miner,” said spokesperson Johan Theron.

“The families of the two miners have been informed of the latest developments and continue to receive support from the mine, the department of mineral resources (DMR) and Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu). The families have requested that we withhold the names of both miners at this time.”

Implats chief executive Terence Goodlace said: “This is a tragic loss for everybody and our heart-felt condolences are with the families of our colleagues. We extend our sincere gratitude to the mine rescue teams for their diligent and professional efforts in leading the search and rescue operation, as well as senior officials from the DMR, Amcu and the industry for their unwavering support.”

Two mineworkers were trapped underground at 1 Shaft in Meriting near Rustenburg on Tuesday following a rock fall. Seven miners managed to escape unharmed.

African News Agency