Search and rescue teams at a mine in the Northern Cape, South Africa, have recovered the body of one of the five miners trapped underground for more than 20 days. The miners were caught when a shaft at Ekapa Resources and Ekapa Minerals was hit by a mudslide last month.
Recovery efforts have been challenging due to concerns over the structural integrity of the underground tunnels, limiting access to the areas where the miners were working. The company has not disclosed the identity of the deceased miner, respecting the family’s request, and formal identification is currently underway.
Meanwhile, the mine has applied for liquidation, signalling an impending shutdown, even as rescue operations continue. Officials previously stated it could take up to 18 months to clear the mudslide and stabilise the shaft.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February 2026 (approx.) | Mudslide hits Ekapa Resources/Ekapa Minerals shaft, trapping five miners underground. |
| Following Days | Search and rescue teams begin operations but face structural safety challenges. |
| More than 20 Days Later | One miner’s body is recovered; company withholds name pending family and formal identification. |
| Present | Mine announces liquidation and eventual closure while recovery for remaining miners continues. |
| Future Estimate | Clearing the mudslide and full shaft recovery could take up to 18 months. |