NUM deeply disturbed by the security threats at Modder East Gold One Mine in Springs

Media Statement 10 November 2023

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has noted with great concern the re-emerging security threats at Modder East Gold One mine.

The NUM can confirmed that on Wednesday the 8^th November 2023 the union officials received a tip-off that there was a planned hostage situation that was going to take place at the mine when the nightshift employees go underground.

The NUM officials and office bearers immediately visited the mine. Upon the arrival, the officials and the office bearers could immediately detect that there were possible security threats at the mine.

“There were group of workers that were unruly and forcefully wanted to go underground to stage a hostage. Indeed, as a responsible trade union, the NUM leaders spoke to the company management that was on-site and agreed that the shift should be called off for security reasons. All employees are been given leave until Monday 13^th November 2023,” said Victor Ngwane, NUM PWV Regional Organiser

The NUM is in talks with Gold One management. As parties to the close shop agreement, the NUM also agreed that a ballot must be triggered. The engagement process was supposed to continued today to agree on terms and conditions.

The NUM can also confirm that it received a letter from AMCU containing a petition that was signed during the three-days hostage situation. The matter of the petition by AMCU is being dealt with by the union’s legal team.

The NUM is continuing engagements with the management of the company to try rescues the situation as the matter now threatens live’s and jobs of the employees we are determined in finalising the matter by next week Monday.

We depart by vehemently condemning the undemocratic and thuggish behaviour displayed by the so called instigators undermining the democratic processes on resolving dispute and resorting to inhumane acts. That does not only undermine the labour laws of this country but the enshrined human rights of workers, and they health and safety act.

We call upon management and the law enforcement agencies to act decisively on the matter with urgency it deserves.

Lastly, we call upon the NUM members to abide by the company’ policies and procedures and avoid temptations of engaging in illegal activities, and report all those committing violent crimes to relevant structures.

For more detailed information, please contact:

Mlulameli Mweli, NUM PWV Acting Regional Secretary, 072 512 1675

Victor Ngwane, NUM PWV Regional Organiser, 066 587 3417

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/10086002340216