Sibanye-Stillwater has confirmed that all 260 mine workers trapped underground at its Kloof 7 shaft in Gauteng have been brought safely to the surface following a shaft incident that occurred on Thursday, May 22.

The incident was caused by a malfunction in the skip door of the rock winder at the Level 39 loading point, which impacted Levels 40, 41, and below. While the mechanical failure disrupted normal operations, the company emphasized that there was no immediate risk of injury to personnel.

Following thorough safety inspections and shaft integrity assessments, the rescue began in phases. The first group of employees surfaced around 13:30 on Friday, May 23, with the final group returning safely by 19:30.

“To ensure worker safety, employees remained at their underground stations instead of using emergency escape routes, which would have involved lengthy walking distances,” said James Wellsted, Sibanye-Stillwater’s spokesperson. “Rescue teams ensured they had access to food, water, and medical support.”

All affected employees will undergo medical evaluations, and support is being extended to their families. The company is actively engaging with the Chief Inspector of Mines, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), and relevant trade unions to determine the next steps.

Operations at the Kloof 7 shaft will remain suspended until all remedial actions are completed and the site is confirmed safe for work.

“Safety remains our core priority, and we will not resume operations until we are confident all risks have been addressed,” said Neal Froneman, CEO of Sibanye-Stillwater. “I commend our management, mine rescue, and medical teams for their commitment in bringing our colleagues home safely.”