The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) is mourning after receiving news of the first mineworker having been killed at Sibanye-Stillwater’s mines in the new year.  Early reports indicate that a locomotive driver was killed after being run over by a locomotive at 2 Shaft of Sibanye-Stillwater’s Driefontein operations outside Carletonville on the West-Rand.  The accident reported happened at approximately 14:46 this afternoon.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of our fallen comrade”, said AMCU National Chairperson: Health and Safety Desk, Xolani Bokoloshe.  “We pray that our Lord will comfort them during this difficult time”, he added.

This is the first death this year, following the spate of killings which saw Sibanye-Stillwater reach the record of eighteen (18) mineworkers killed last year.  December alone saw two (2) incidents in less than a week, killing three (3) mineworkers at Sibanye-Stillwater’s Beatrix operations in the Free State and one (1) mineworker at Sibanye-Stillwater’s Khuseleka Shaft in Rustenburg.

The Union has consistently made submissions for amendments to the MHSA to hold mining bosses accountable, and it continuously repeats this clarion call.  In late 2021, AMCU also called on the DMRE to lead an inquest into rising mining fatalities.  AMCU wrote several letters to Sibanye-Stillwater, including letters to its CEO, Neal Froneman and its Board of Directors, requesting for urgent intervention, albeit without success.  Ultimately, AMCU even called for the resignation of Froneman due to his failure to ensure the safety of his workers.

“This year has just started and another breadwinner has lost his life.  Another family is mourning and another dream is crushed”, said Bokoloshe.  “We will commit all our resources to getting to the bottom of this senseless death and ensure that those responsible are brought to book”, Bokoloshe concluded.

For interviews:  AMCU Health and Safety Chairperson Xolani Bokoloshe (082-495-5861)