An elevator carrying 86 workers plummeted about 656 feet at the Impala Platinum mine in Rustenburg, South Africa resulting in the deaths of 11 miners and injuries to 75 others. 

The incident occurred at the end of the workers’ shift on Monday evening, November 27, 2023, representing one of the most severe mining accidents in recent history.

The mine is operated by Impala Platinum Holdings. CEO Nico Muller referred to the incident as the “darkest day” for the company. 

The cause of the sudden descent of the elevator is currently being investigated. Reports indicate that the elevator, designed to hold up to 35 workers on each of its three levels, unexpectedly dropped. The exact cause remains unclear. 

Notably, the mine, consisting of nine shafts and approximately 0.6 miles deep, was recognized as the world’s largest platinum mine in terms of production last year.

South Africa’s mining sector has historically been plagued with accidents, though there has been a significant reduction over the years. Fatalities in the sector decreased from nearly 300 in the year 2000 to 49 in 2022. However, the recent tragedy underscores the persisting dangers inherent in mining operations.

The injured, including some with severe fractures, were taken to hospitals. Fourteen of them are in critical condition. 

Following the accident, operations at the mine were halted. Besides the company’s internal investigation, South African Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe announced a government-led inquiry into the incident.