Caledonia Mining confirms fatality at Blanket

Caledonia Mining confirmed a fatality at its Blanket Mine in Zimbabwe on Monday, saying it occurred in a mining-related accident on 12 May.

The AIM-traded firm said the mine’s management had suspended mining activities in the specific mining area, being the Eroica ore body, pending a full risk assessment and in-loco investigation.

Eroica contributed 10% of production in the first quarter of 2017.

The company’s management had notified the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, as well as the Inspector of Mines, and said it would provide “all the necessary assistance” to the Inspectorate Department in its inquiry.

In its statement, the board said the directors and management of Caledonia and Blanket were expressing their “sincere condolences” to the family and colleagues of the deceased.

“This is a serious setback in our efforts to continuously improve safety at Blanket Mine,” said CEO Steve Curtis.

“The previous fatality was in April 2015.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, colleagues and friends of the deceased.”