By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Mining company Sibanye-Stillwater said on Friday, it had brought 79 miners to the surface at its Kloof operation near Westonaria by midday.
The miners were stuck underground after the hoist system used to access a shaft at the Kloof gold mine was damaged in an accident on Thursday.
Fullview had earlier reported that 300 miners were stuck underground but the company has confirmed that its actually 260 miners.
The first phase of the rescue had brought 79 people to the surface by 1:30 pm , the company said in a statement.
“The process is expected to be executed in two phases, and the first phase has successfully been completed by hoisting 79 employees (from level 31 and 35) to surface. Shaft examinations between 35 and 39 level are currently being completed where the remaining 181 employees (who are waiting at 39 level) are stationed.”
“Employees still underground have been provided with food and will be hoisted to surface as soon as the shaft safety examination has been completed,” it added.
Relatives of those still in the mine, however, expressed shock and worry that their loved ones remained underground.
The mine, located 60km (37 miles) west of Johannesburg, is among a few collecting from some of the world’s deepest gold deposits.