NUM calls for the department of minerals resources and energy to investigate two fatalities at Modikwa mine in Limpopo

Press Statement, 12 June 2022

NUM calls for the department of minerals resources and energy to investigate two fatalities at Modikwa mine in Limpopo

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in North East has learnt with shock about two incidents that happened at Modikwa Mine where two mineworkers were killed in a space of two weeks. On the 10th of June 2022 at around 11h45 two employees working for Red-Path Mining a ( Development Contractor working for Modikwa) got injured when they were travelling underground where one got seriously injured and was immediately airlifted to hospital by helicopter for medical attention. 

The other lady passed away after the wheel struck both of them. The wheel was meant to be fitted in an LHD Machine which was parked underground for mechanical problems. The NUM is shocked by the incident and how the wheel was transported underground leaves much to be desired. We call upon the Department of Minerals Resources and Energy (DMRE) to put their foot down and investigate this incident. 

 Last year alone in Limpopo PMC Mine killed two people towards the end of the year and already this year they have registered one fatality. 

The NUM reiterates its call for the DMRE to intensify the investigations and if the mine is found to be on the wrong side of the law, the perpetrators must be arrested and prosecuted. We are aware that in incidents of this nature, the blame is always put on lower-level employees who are not the authors of the company policies and procedures when the real perpetrators are deliberately overlooked.

The NUM would like to convey its deepest heartfelt condolences to the family, members and friends during this difficult time. We are saying one life is more than enough. Mining companies should start to value the lives of black mineworkers. 

For more detailed information, please contact:

Rangers Molapo, NUM North East Regional Chairperson, 083 282 1674

Phillip Mankge, NUM North East Regional Secretary, 076 053 3401

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/100860023402167