Enquiry for Caledonia Mining's Zimbabwe project following employee death

A mining related accident led to a fatality at the Caledonia Mining’s 49% owned Blanket Mine in Zimbabwe on Thursday.

The AIM-traded mining, exploration and development firm said the accident occurred in a development area at the Blanket ore body section of the mine, and that the ministry of mines has been notified of the incident by Caledonia’s management.

The ministry, the minister of mines and mining development, and the inspector of mines are understood to be opening an enquiry into the incident.

The company said it was unable to release further details but offered condolences to the family and colleagues of the deceased.

Steve Curtis, chief executive of Caledonia Mining, said: "It is with great sadness that we announce a fatal accident at Blanket Mine on the 12th of July 2018. This is a very disappointing setback to our efforts to improve safety at Blanket which has been a key focus area for the business in 2018. My colleagues and I express our sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased."

The Blanket mine was acquired by Caledonia in 2006 and the company is now using investment in order to increase production to a target of approximately 80,000 ounces of gold by 2021.

As of 1056 BST, Caledonia Mining’s shares were down 1.58% at 622.50p.