INVESTIGATIONS are under way at Ekapa Mine in Central Road, Beaconsfield, after a mining contractor was tragically killed on Friday morning at around 5am.
CEO of Ekapa mining Jahn Hohne confirmed that a mining colleague was killed on March 10 at the old DuToitspan Mine shaft.
“It is with great sorrow that Ekapa confirms the passing of a mining colleague during the early hours of Friday morning.
“The Ekapa community is shocked by this unfortunate event during which a mining development contractor passed after a fall of ground in the DuToitspan Mine.”
Hohne indicated that this was the first fatality that was recorded at the diamond mines in Kimberley in the past 10 years, since Ekapa took over the operation of the mines seven years ago.
“A comprehensive investigation has been launched into the incident,” he said.
Hohne extended sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased.
“It is an incredibly sad day for the staff, board and shareholders of Ekapa Mine. Our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. May our prayers be heard to comfort all at this very difficult time. We all stand together in unity to overcome this immense tragedy,” Hohne said.
SAPS Sergeant Dikeledi Gopane said the Kimberley police had opened an inquest into the death.
“It is alleged that a male person aged 35 years old lost his life after an incident that occurred underground at Ekapa Mine. Police investigations are continuing,” the statement read.
The Department of Labour and Employment said the Department of Minerals and Energy Resources would investigate the fatality.
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