Mine
17 October 2007
The Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Buyelwa Sonjica, wishes to
regrettably report the recovery of the 23 illegal miner bodies at Western
Holdings old underground workings mine which is owned by ARM in the Free State
region.
"It appears that the miners were killed during an underground fire accident
whilst decking for gold illegally. This tragic incident highlights the danger
associated with illegal mining activities, which as this incident demonstrated
often results in lost of lives," Minister Sonjica said. The police
investigation is underway.
The Minister calls upon all those engaged in illegal mining activities to
stop their illegal operations as these are against the law. All small-scale
miners are urged by the department to apply for mining licences to regularise
their operations.
Much as the Minister regrets the loss of lives she also condemns those who
engaged in illegal mining activities as it undermines the mining regulatory
framework, and affects the image of South African mining in a negative way.
I wish to inform and invite all those interested in small-scale mining to
approach the department for guidance and assistance as there is a small-scale
mining programme available through the department.
Enquiries:
Ms Bontle Mafuna
Chief Director Communication
Tel: 012 317 8086
Fax: 012 322 4954
Cell: 082 773 2388
E-mail: bontle.mafuna@dme.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Minerals and Energy
17 October 2007
