Eleven workers died at the Impala Platinum mine in Rustenburg on Monday (27/11). The accident happened at 11 Shaft.

Impala’s media liaison, Johan Theron, said the remaining 86 employees were accounted for, while 75 were transferred to the hospital.

Impala CEO, Nico Muller, said they are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of their colleagues and they are in the process of contacting the deceased's next of kin. He said support will be provided to their families and colleagues.

“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to local medical services from the Bojanala District as well as the Impala Medical Services team who worked tirelessly during this crisis to provide the necessary medical paramedic services, and for securing additional ICU beds and ambulances, mobilising additional surgeons and securing the support of three private hospitals.”

An elevator used to return miners to the surface at the end of their shift unexpectedly descended. Theron said its rapid descent was stopped by a counterweight, but workers were trapped. An investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the accident.

OFM News