Illegal miners attacked a Sasol employee at Syferfontein Mine on Satuday, 22 December and beat him with ‘knopkieries’.
He is currently in a hospital in Johannesburg with serious injuries, including a fractured skull.
The illegal miners continued with their operations yesterday (23 December) and two of them died during a shootout with Sasol’s security personnel.
According to Mr Alex Anderson, Head of Group Media Relations at Sasol, the illegal miners are part of a violent group that have been stealing copper cables at the mine.
Two of Sasol’s security personnel also sustained injuries yesterday during the shootout.
Mr Anderson said in an effort to safeguard its employees and assets, Sasol Mining management decided to withdraw employees on Saturday when the illegal miners were seen entering the mine.
Sasol notified the police of the situation and the police are still investigating the case.
Mr Anderson said they are in the process of laying various criminal charges.
“Sasol remains committed to the safety of its employees, contractors and the community,” said Mr Anderson.
