Employment and Labour conveys condolences to the families of the eleven departed miners in IMPLATS
The Department of Employment and Labour is deeply saddened to have learned on 28 November 2023 of the tragic passing of 11 miners (workers) at the Impala Platinum in Rustenburg mining complex in South Africa.
According to Impala, workers were being brought to the surface at the end of their shift on Monday when the conveyance system that carries workers up and down an underground shaft 1,000 meters deep began a rapid descent.
Minister Nxesi said the Department views the occurrence as the most painful striking in days, and “our hearts are heavy for the lives lost and those touched by this tragic incident. The Department will ensure relevant support is provided where necessary and needed.”
The Department extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the 11 miners, their families, colleagues, and the mining industry as a whole.
The Department also wishes the 75 employees who were hurt a speedy recuperation. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.
Minister Nxesi also urged those responsible for Health and Safety in the mines to conduct quick investigations, to establish whether there was negligence or not. If there was, the Minister emphasised that the law should take its course, within the relevant prescripts.
For media inquiries:
Teboho Thejane
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 082 697 0694
E-mail: Teboho.Thejane@labour.gov.za
