THE DIAMOND PAGE — Mud slide kills 22 in S. Africa

A mud slide has killed four people and left another 18 presumed dead at Botswana Diamondfields’ (BWD-V) newly acquired Rovic diamond mine in South Africa’s Orange Free State.

The mud slide struck on Nov. 27 when heavy rains caused an old part of the mine to collapse, creating mud-water pressure on internal structures. Four bodies were recovered, and another 18 are missing, though mine officials say there is no hope of finding them alive.

Thirty-four mine employees were saved before the mud flow forced rescue workers to retreat. Mining has been suspended until weather and water flow conditions improve.

Botswana Goldfields will cover all funeral and medical costs for the victims, and establish a fund to assist the families.

The company took over the Rovic mine in July. Situated 100 km northeast of Kimberly, it contains 2 million minable tons grading 35 carats per 100 tons.