Rustenburg – The body of one of the two trapped miners at Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats) mine in Rustenburg, North West, was recovered and brought to surface on Friday, the company said.
“Management can now confirm that the body of 40-year-old Mr Tanki Samuel Lepitikoe was successfully recovered today by mine rescue personnel and has been brought to surface,” said spokesperson Johan Theron.
“Mr Lepitikoe, originally from Lesotho, is employed as a rock-drill operator at Impala Rustenburg with four years’ service with the company. His family will continue to receive counselling and support from the mine following his tragic passing, with kind assistance from the department of mineral resources and the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union [Amcu].”
Theron said rescue efforts continue in an attempt to find Ohemile Moses Maamogwa who has been missing since the incident occurred on Tuesday.
Maamogwa, 55, a rock drill operator is from Morokweng Village in Vryburg, North West. He has 31 years’ service with the company.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with all during this very difficult time,” said Theron.
The two mineworkers were trapped underground at 1 Shaft in Meriting near Rustenburg on Tuesday. Seven others escaped the rock fall unharmed.
African News Agency