Impala Platinum Mines: Platinum miners protest
South African mine protest at Impala Platinum Mines. Image Credit: SANews

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Impala Platinum Mines tragedy: Death toll climbs to 12

In a somber update from Impala Platinum’s Rustenburg mines, management confirms the tragic death of another mineworker.

30-11-23 09:08
Impala Platinum Mines: Platinum miners protest
South African mine protest at Impala Platinum Mines. Image Credit: SANews

At Impala Platinum’s Rustenburg mines, the management has confirmed the death of another mineworker, bringing the toll to 12.

The miner succumbed to injuries sustained during a shaft tragedy where over 70 others remain hospitalised.

ALSO READ: President mourns mineworker tragedy in Rustenburg

The incident occurred on Monday when the elevator, crucial for transporting workers to the surface, malfunctioned.

OPERATIONS AT THE MINES SUSPENDED

Operations at the mines are currently suspended. To facilitate mourning and conduct precautionary audits on conveyance and winding systems across all shafts.

Johan Theron, the company’s spokesperson, emphasised ongoing support for the bereaved families, including financial assistance for funerals and a commitment to supporting the education of the deceased colleagues’ children.

“Implats will provide ongoing support to the families of the deceased and has set aside funds to assist with their funerals. In addition to standard Company funding, the Group will also financially support the children of our late colleagues, from birth through to the completion of their tertiary studies,” he said.

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OPERATIONS TO RESUME AT OTHER RUSTENBURG SHAFTS

While production at specific shafts is temporarily halted for internal investigations, remedial actions, and regulatory approvals, Impala Platinum plans to resume operations at other Rustenburg shafts on Thursday, 30 November.

The company underscores its dedication to transparency and safety. Acknowledging the gravity of the incident and taking comprehensive measures to address the situation.

PRESIDENT SYMPATHIZING OVER THE IMPALA PLATINUM MINES TRAGEDY

In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Presidency conveyed the President’s sympathies to the affected families while extending thoughts to the management and staff of Implats.

“The President offers his deep condolences to the families of the deceased mineworkers.

“The President extends his thoughts to the management and staff of Implats and wishes the injured workers, especially those who are in critical care, a full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.

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