Rio Tinto ends force majeure at Richards Bay Minerals

A force majeure declared at Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) last June following community unrest and security threats, has officially been lifted.

This was announced by RBM’s parent company Rio Tinto on Friday.

‘This marks an important moment in RBM’s recovery since the halt in operations last year. We must all remain vigilant and continue to strengthen our partnership with government and community stakeholders.

‘I would also like to acknowledge the hard work of our people to ensure RBM can continue to deliver for its customers, communities and shareholders,’ said Rio Tinto chief executive: minerals, Sinead Kaufman.

The mine has faced major disruptions caused by violent protests characterised by road blocks and the destruction of machinery worth millions of rands.

Rio Tinto’s decision to halt operations last June followed the assassination of RBM general manager Nico Swart who was shot in his vehicle on his way to work.