SAPS deploys specialised teams to Nkaneng mine

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has deployed specialized teams to assist in rescue, recovery, and investigative operations at the disused Nkaneng mine in Rustenburg, North West. This move follows the recovery of 14 deceased illegal miners on Tuesday. Major General Nonkululeko Phokane, a police spokesperson, explained that the SAPS National Office is bolstering the capacity of the North West Province to effectively manage the complex operation, requiring specialized expertise, resources, and personnel.

Phokane emphasized that police are collaborating closely with the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) to assess the mine environment and gather relevant information. They are currently working on the formal identification of the deceased and conducting post-mortem examinations to determine the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

The SAPS victim identification unit, detectives, and forensic specialists are coordinating these processes. Additionally, the DMRE is conducting an assessment of the mining operation and its compliance status. The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) stated that the incident occurred within a legally authorized mining area, specifically a surface opencast mine without an underground mine shaft.

The DMPR is reviewing all relevant information and will provide further details regarding compliance with mining laws once appropriate.