Central SA
Rescue operation enters critical phase at Kimberley mine─── ZENANDE MPAME 15:00 Mon, 02 Mar 2026
Rescue teams have entered the second phase of loading stones and mud, and will soon get to the miners, marking a critical turning point in the ongoing operation at Ekapa Minerals in Kimberley.
After days of dewatering the mine shaft, this next stage brings authorities closer to accessing the areas where the five workers remain trapped. Government officials have pledged to maintain oversight and support until the miners are safely brought to the surface.
Mineral and petroleum resources minister Gwede Mantashe conducted a follow-up oversight visit to the mine alongside Northern Cape finance, economic development and tourism MEC Venus Blennies-Magage, and Sol Plaatje mayor Martha Bartlett on Friday (27/2).
Mantashe called on Ekapa Minerals to intensify rescue efforts to ensure the safe recovery of five mineworkers trapped nearly 890m underground at the Ekapa Mine.
“Announcing liquidation during a disaster is an act of bad faith on the part of the mine, particularly in an industry where workers’ lives have been endangered in the past,” he said.
“We urge mine management and rescue teams to intensify efforts to ensure the miners are brought safely back to the surface as swiftly as possible, so that their families may find closure.”
Mud
Following an extensive dewatering process, rescue teams are now removing mud from the affected sections of the mine. This critical step will enable teams to access the areas where the mineworkers are believed to be trapped.
The Kimberley diamond mine shut down with immediate effect on Wednesday (25/2) after applying for liquidation. The company said the decision was not taken lightly but was considered in the best interests of all stakeholders.
It mentioned operational, financial, and safety factors as reasons for the closure. It has been close to two weeks since five mine workers were trapped underground in Tunnel 6 following a mudslide.
More than a thousand miners have lost their jobs and have not been paid their February salaries. Parliament’s mineral resources committee said it was surprised by the sudden closure of the Ekapa mine.
Committee chairperson Mikateko Mahlaule said it is concerning that during the committee’s visit last year, the mine did not indicate any plans to close or lay off workers.
• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.
