11 Miners Killed In Elevator Incident In South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, Nov 28 (NNN-BUANEWS) – Eleven miners died in an elevator incident, yesterday, at an Impala Platinum mine in Rustenburg, North West Province of South Africa, local media reported today.

“An elevator transporting miners up and down the shaft unexpectedly dropped 200 metres,” said a report by the eNCA, a local television channel.

A total of 88 miners were on the conveyance, the report said, quoting Johan Theron, spokesperson with the mining company.

The safety incident, involving a winder rope, occurred yesterday afternoon, at its 11 Shaft operation at Impala Rustenburg, the company said in a statement.

The rope is connected to the personnel conveyance, which hoists employees up and down the shaft, and the conveyance comprises three levels, each with a capacity to carry 35 personnel, the statement said.

Investigations into the incident are underway, the company said.