260 Miners Trapped Overnight at South African Gold Mine Safe

A mechanical failure at Sibanye-Stillwater’s Kloof Gold Mine near Johannesburg caused 260 miners to remain underground at a sub-shaft station for nearly 24 hours as a safety precaution. The incident involved the unexpected opening of a rock winder skip door at the loading point, resulting in minor structural damage to several levels of the mine. All miners were accounted for, safe, and provided with food, though the National Union of Mineworkers expressed concern about the extended time underground and the delayed public disclosure of the incident. Sibanye-Stillwater conducted detailed risk assessments and inspections before initiating plans to hoist the workers to the surface, expected around midday following the incident. Mining accidents remain common in South Africa, but safety improvements have reduced fatalities, with 42 miners dying in 2024 compared to 55 the previous year. The company emphasized its commitment to safety and transparent communication as it manages the situation.