The Northern Cape Provincial Government has moved to swiftly support the families affected by the Ekapa Minerals mine accident, as police on Monday recovered the body of one of the five miners trapped underground.
The miner, along with four others, was trapped following a mud rush at the mine in February.
The recovery marks a sombre milestone in the weeks-long effort to bring closure to the families of the miners caught in the mud rush.
“Kimberley detectives are investigating an inquest after the body of an adult male was recovered from a mine in Kimberley on Monday, 9 March, at approximately 15:00.
“The investigation continues,” police said in a short statement.
In a statement, the Northern Cape government extended condolences to the family of the deceased miner.
“This recovery brings to an end a painful period of uncertainty for the family. On behalf of the provincial government and the people of the Northern Cape, Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, extends his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased miner.
“The Premier has also expressed his gratitude to the rescue teams who continue to work tirelessly alongside Ekapa Minerals during this difficult operation. He has encouraged them to press on with their efforts, as work continues to bring closure to the other affected families,” the statement read.
The provincial government has committed to a relief package for the families of the five miners.
The relief was also extended to the 1 100 miners who were rendered unemployed after Ekapa Minerals was liquidated shortly after the accident.
The five families were provided with some R10 000 for groceries and other essentials, while the 1 100 miners left jobless were given food vouchers of R3 000, with the total aid package amounting to some R3.5 million.
“The Northern Cape Provincial Government continues to keep all the affected families in its thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
