1 October 2019

Barrick Niugini Limited (BNL), operator of the Porgera gold mine in Enga, reported that a number of illegal intruders have been seriously injured after falling from height in the open pit area of the mine.

Mine management reported that...several large groups of unauthorised intruders, believed to be illegal miners, gained access to the mine’s open pit, and that a number of the intruders were injured after falling from extremely steep inclines while climbing through the area.

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BNL executive managing director Tony Esplin confirmed that two of the intruders suffered fatal head injuries and several others have sustained serious injuries requiring urgent medical treatment, which the mine is providing.

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“These incidents highlight the enormous risks that intruders and unauthorized persons face when they seek illegal entry to the operational areas of the mine.

“The PJV has repeatedly warned these intruders, many of whom are from areas outside of Porgera such as Kandep, Laigam and Tari, of the hazards of conducting illegal mining in the operational areas of the mine, but sadly our warnings are not heeded.”

Mine management has noted that local reports alleging that the injured were shot or injured by police or mine security are not true, and that all of the injured had fallen from height.

“The injured persons are currently receiving medical treatment at the mine medical centre, and following further assessment by medical staff, those with more serious injuries may require transfer to hospitals elsewhere,” he said.

Barrick (Niugini) Limited has advised relevant authorities about the incidents, and will be working closely with the police and others as they investigate these events.