President Zuma urges South Africans to pray for Carletonville miners trapped underground

UPDATE: ALL miners have been safely rescued and there are no injuries reported!

President Jacob Zuma has expressed shock and concern at the news that a large number of mine workers are trapped underground at a Carletonville mine.

In a statement tonight the President said he wishes the miners and their families strength during this period, and said everything possible should be done to ensure the safe rescue of the miners.

An underground fire broke out at Harmony Gold’s Kusasalethu mine in Carletonville this morning.

It is believed that there were 486 workers underground when the fire began on the mine’s 75th level, which is about 2,300 metres beneath the surface.

A spokesperson confirmed that 287 of the workers are safe in underground refuge bays, with access to fresh air, water and communication facilities.

“I urge all South Africans to keep the miners in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult period,” said President Zuma.