All 486 miners trapped underground after a fire broke out at a South
African goldmine have been found safe, the mine's spokeswoman said
Sunday.
The 18 miners who were still missing shortly before 9
p.m. (1900 GMT) have been located, said Harmony Gold Mining Company
spokeswoman, Charmane Russell. A rescue mission was underway to bring
the remaining miners above ground, the mining company said in a
statement.
The miners were trapped when a fire started 2,300 meters (about 7,545 feet) below the surface, said the mining company.
About 389 miners had already been brought safely to the surface and Harmony Gold said the fire has been contained.
South African President Jacob Zuma had urged the mine to do everything to ensure the safe rescue of all the miners.
"I
urge all South Africans to keep the miners in their thoughts and
prayers during this difficult period," said Zuma before the miners were
found.
All 486 miners trapped underground after a fire broke out at a South African goldmine have been found safe
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