Gold Mine Accident Injures 260 Workers

South African Gold Mine Incident: 260 Workers Rescued After 24 Hours Trapped Underground

A dramatic incident unfolded on May 22, 2025, at the Kloof gold mine in South Africa, operated by Sibanye-Stillwater, when a malfunction in the hoisting system trapped 260 miners deep underground for nearly 24 hours.

The malfunction involved the skip door of the rock winder at the Kloof 7 shaft, preventing access between key mining levels and leaving workers stranded at depths of over 3,000 meters. For safety reasons, rescuers decided to keep the miners at a sub-shaft station rather than forcing them to walk long distances underground.

Rescue operations began immediately, with 79 miners brought safely to the surface by early afternoon the next day, followed by the remaining 181 miners later that evening. Thanks to the quick response and coordinated efforts of the rescue teams, all workers were accounted for with no injuries or fatalities reported.

This incident highlights the significant risks faced by miners in South Africa’s deep-level gold mines, which operate at extreme depths. Sibanye-Stillwater has suspended operations at the affected shaft pending thorough safety inspections and equipment repairs.

Labor unions have expressed concern about workers’ safety and called for improved safety protocols in the mining sector, which remains one of the most hazardous industries in the country.

The event underscores the critical need for ongoing investment in safety measures to protect the lives of thousands of miners who depend on this vital industry.