Trade, Commerce and Industry Minister Richard Maru has questioned the safety and operating standards of the Ramu Nickel Mine following the death of Kenneth Karis while he was working in a pit at the mine.
Reports reaching the Minister’s office claim there are no proper lighting, fencing and security to secure and demarcate the mine operations in pits from public access.
The Minister will be calling for a full scale investigation into the operations of the mine to determine if the mine is operating within world standards and whether the Mining Inspector has been diligent in enforcing compliance with safety standards at that mine.
The Minister said he will not allow foreign companies to profit at the risk of citizens’ health and safety.
He has demanded the mine meet repatriation costs of the late Kenneth Karis to Yangoru, East Sepik.
Should there be no favourable outcome the Minister says he will support legal action against the company.