Mantashe condemns mining accident

Mining Minister, Gwede Mantashe

"It is the primary responsibility of every employer to provide a safe working space for its workers,” the minister said in a statement.

Four miners passed away following what is being reported as a suspected gassing accident.

According to the Department of Mineral Resources, this is the seventh accident leading to fatalities at the Sibanye-Stillwater operations, making the company the biggest contributor to fatalities in the sector since the beginning of the year.

"It is a great concern to us that this accident has occurred soon after the disaster at the company's Driefontein operations just a month ago. Health and safety of mineworkers and communities must receive our sharpest and special attention," Mantashe said.

He also expressed his condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased mineworkers.