More than 1000 mineworkers trapped underground
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) says over 1000 mineworkers are currently trapped underground at Sibanye Gold's Beatrix Mine in the Free State.
The workers became trapped following a power outage on Wednesday night .
NUM spokesperson Livhuwani Mammburu says the shaft that is meant to bring workers back to the surface is not operational.
"As we speak now that shaft is powered by a generator. They are rescuing one mineworker at a time."
NUM has also rejected reports that trapped miners are being provided with food and water.
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"Our members also informed us that workers do not have access to water and food.
"We are surprised that the company is telling the public and the media that they are giving our members water and food."
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Mamburu claims the trapped miners are suffering from heat cramps and dehydration.
"We call on Sibanye Gold to rescue all those workers alive."
The mine has not been available for comment.