Geita Gold Mining Ltd (GGM) regrets to confirm the death of a 14 year
old child who was tragically killed in a fall from a mining bench in
the Nyankanga Pit at 04h00 yesterday morning (23 May 2013).
The Geita Police and Regional Mines Officer (MADINI) were called to
the scene to investigate the incident.
It is believed the minor, who was male, and seven members of his
family were involved in illegal mining activity at the time of his
death. The deceased is believed to have fallen 30 meters after
slipping off a mining bench in an area known as Cut Six.
The death of anyone on its concession is something GGM takes very
seriously. An internal investigation is underway and GGM will continue
to actively cooperate with the Tanzania Police Force in its
investigations. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between
GGM and the Police Force in 2012. AngloGold Ashanti is committed to
openness and transparency in such matters.
Unlawful artisanal mining is a serious challenge at Geita and
elsewhere, being both extremely dangerous to participants, and a
challenge to the company’s mining rights. More than 2000 illegal
miners have been apprehended on GGM’s site so far this year.