Rescue workers yesterday located and recovered the bodies of the two remaining mineworkers who were unaccounted for until now, following a seismic event that resulted in a fall of ground at the Kusasalethu mine.

All of the employees who were trapped underground, are now accounted for.

Harmony’s board of directors and management, expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of Mr Matuba, Mr Mokhele and Mr Mokemane (all stope team  members) and Mr Moganedi and Mr Sethafuno (both rock drill operators) who have lost their lives as a result of this tragic incident.

“Our condolences go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives. We will continue to provide the necessary support to the families of the deceased.

We are grateful to our colleagues and the scores of volunteer members of Mine Rescue Services  from across South Africa for their unwavering commitment to the rescue operation. These rescue teams have demonstrated the utmost professionalism and courage under exceptionally challenging circumstances. We thank the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR), the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) for their collaboration that has made this possible,” said Peter Steenkamp, chief executive officer of Harmony.

Investigations into the incident, involving representatives of the company, organised labour and the health and safety directorate of the DMR will take place.