The Department of Mineral Resources yesterday, 27 September reported seismic activity of 2.1 magnitude at Harmony Bambanani mine, Welkom in the Free State which trapped eight employees.
Four employees were immediately rescued and brought above surface three of whom were seriously injured, whilst four were trapped until late afternoon.
As rescue efforts continued yesterday two employees were then rescued around 14h00 yesterday. Today, mine officials have informed the senior inspector sent by the department that this afternoon that, the body of one employee of the remaining two was found around 15h30 today, and one is still not found.
Mine management have dispatched six proto teams consisting of rock engineers to assist in securing and clearing the area so that rescue efforts continue safely to avoid more injuries.
The teams are working in shifts due to space constraints underground. The proto teams continue with their work in search of the remaining employee.
The department extends its sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Any new developments will be made known as they come to the department's attention.
For enquiries contact:
Zingaphi Jakuja
Cell: 082 766 3940
Rescue operations continue at Free State mine
