By: Natasha Archary

Impala Platinum (Implats) has confirmed the death of another miner, taking the death toll from the devastating elevator accident at its Rustenburg mine on Monday, 27 November to thirteen.
In a statement issued on Monday, 04 December, Implats said the thirteenth casualty succumbed to his injuries in hospital, and died on Sunday, 03 December.
This after the twelfth death was reported on Wednesday, 29 November after a shaft personnel conveyance was hoisting employees to the surface at the end of their shift, and the conveyance of the elevator unexpectedly started descending rapidly.
The mining company also provided an update on the 73 other miners who were hospitalised.
“Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats) reports with deep sorrow and regret that an employee who was hospitalised following the accident at Impala Rustenburg’s 11 Shaft on 27 November, succumbed to his injuried and passed away yesterday, Sunday 03 December.
Implats has offered its condolences to and remains in close contact with his family. Yesterday’s fatality brings to 13 the number of employees who have passed on following the 11 Shaft accident.
As of this morning, (04 December) a total of 23 employees have been discharged from hospital. Of the 50 employees who remain in hospital, 8 are in critical care.”
Meanwhile, the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) is calling for Impala Platinum (Implats) management to be held accountable and charged with culpable homicide.
Amcu President, Joseph Mathunjwa has accused Implats management of neglience, saying the incident and loss of life could have been avoided if the elevators were service regularly and safety measures were in place.
Implats will be holding a day of rememberance for employees and the families of those affected by this tragic accident.
A memorial service will be held at Impala Rustenburg on Wednesday, 06 December. Names of the deceased Implats employees will only be released on the day of the memorial service.
Implats reports, with deep sorrow and regret, that an employee who was hospitalised following the accident at Impala Rustenburg’s 11 Shaft on 27 November 2023, succumbed to his injuries and passed away yesterday. pic.twitter.com/ssTZbD9487
— Implats (@Implats) December 4, 2023
Also read: Public health advocate Prof. Harry Seftel has passed away



