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The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is relieved that all the bodies of the five workers that were trapped underground a week ago at Kusasalethu mine near Carletonville have been recovered and their families can now find closure to this painful experience.

“We are taking this opportunity to thank everybody who contributed to the mission of recovering the trapped workers. We understand that this was not an easy operation considering the big rocks, that hindered all the efforts”, said Erick Gcilitshana, NUM Health, and Safety Secretary.

Mineworkers need not risk their lives because of production bonuses pressures; however,  they must collectively adopt a  stance that if the workplace becomes unsafe they stop work until all necessary and safe measures have been put in place.

The NUM once again passes its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.

“No amount of words or money will ever replace the souls of those breadwinners. We are looking forward to the investigation, to find out what exactly triggered the seismic event that led to the loss of lives at Kusasalethu mine," Gcilitshana said. The NUM urgently calls on the tripartite stakeholders to go back to drawing board, and revisit commitments made relation to fatalities and occupational health and safety in the mines.

Issued by NUM