/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The Lily Mine near Barberton suffered the collapse of a crown or central pillar in early February. Three miners became trapped when their lamp room, housed in a container near the entrance of the mine, was swallowed up by a sinkhole the size of a sports field. The missing three miners were identified as Ms Pretty Mabuza, Mr Solomon Nyarenda and Ms Yvonne Mnisi. Very few people all over our country and even internationally would not have followed the gripping encounter since the incident occurred.

The members of the Mine Rescue Services – including volunteers – worked tirelessly to try and bring the three miners to safety despite hugely unstable conditions. Sadly, on Saturday 13 February, a second collapse occurred, sending more debris into the underground mining area. This unfortunately halted the rescuers’ efforts until such time as a geological assessment by experts in the field could determine the way forward.

We have to spare a thought for the brave men from the Mines Rescue Services for their unselfish Voluntate Servio, “Voluntary we serve”, services. Whenever miners are trapped underground or are faced with some kind of emergency, these are the men that provide hope, perhaps the only hope of being found alive.

Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the trapped miners. We are so terribly sorry for the anxiety and stress this situation has put you through. Our prayers are with your loved ones.

Issued by UASA