November 28, 2023
A tragic elevator accident at a platinum mine in Rustenburg, South Africa has left 11 miners dead and 75 others injured. The accident occurred on Tuesday, November 28, when an elevator carrying miners underground suddenly broke down and fell.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation, but mine officials say it is the worst tragedy in the company's history.
"This is a devastating day for our company and our community," said mine CEO Nico Muller in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims."
Rescue workers are working around the clock to search for survivors and recover the bodies of the dead.
The accident has raised concerns about safety standards at the mine, which is owned by Impala Platinum. The company has been criticized in the past for its poor safety record.
In 2014, 34 miners were killed in a fire at another Impala Platinum mine. The company was later fined for failing to maintain safety standards.
The South African government has ordered an investigation into the latest accident. The government has also pledged to work with the mining industry to improve safety standards at mines across the country.
