The bodies of two more miners were recovered from Ekapa Minerals’ Du Toitspan Joint Shaft mine in Kimberley during the early hours of Sunday morning
Image: Sandi Kwon Hoo / DFA
The bodies of two more miners were recovered from Ekapa Minerals’ Du Toitspan Joint Shaft mine in Kimberley during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Five miners were trapped 890 metres underground following a mud rush on February 17.
The chief executive officer of Ekapa Resources (Pty) Ltd and Ekapa Minerals (Pty) Ltd, Jahn BL Hohne, confirmed on March 22 that a total of three miners’ bodies have now been recovered.
DFA reported that the families have been informed.
“The company extends its deepest condolences to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the deceased during this extremely difficult time,” Hohne said.
“Recovery teams have now established visual contact with a fourth miner. Work is underway to safely access and recover the remains as soon as conditions allow. Due to the conditions in the area, this process may take time and will be undertaken with the necessary care and safety considerations.”
He added that teams were continuing to work towards the final area where the remaining miners are believed to be located.
“While there is still ground to be cleared, there is a possibility that the remaining miners may be in close proximity to the others; however, this can only be confirmed once the area has been fully accessed.”
Hohne stated that, as of the latest operational update:
He indicated that water levels remained under control following a temporary power disruption experienced on Saturday.
“Operations have since stabilised. Recovery operations continue to be conducted carefully and methodically under strict safety controls, with specialist mine rescue and proto teams working around the clock as conditions allow. Further updates will be provided as progress continues,” Hohne added.
Family members expressed both sadness and relief that their loved ones had been found.
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