Johannesburg [South Africa], May 6 (ANI): At least seven miners were killed in a cave-in at the Masakhane gold mine here on Saturday.

This comes after a 2.2 magnitude earthquake struck the city on Thursday, trapping 13 miners underground, CNN reported.

According to Sibanye-Stillwater mining company, six of them were rescued and are undergoing treatment at a hospital.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his condolences, adding that an investigation has been launched for the same. He vowed for a permanent solution to address the "unacceptable" death rates in mines in the country.

"As government and South Africans at large, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased workers, among whom are workers from neighboring states including Mozambique," President Ramaphosa said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Sibanye-Stillwater added, that a "thorough investigation" by management, the country's Department of Mineral Resources and others will be undertaken.

"All efforts will be made to ensure to prevent incidents of this nature occurring in the future," the company said in a statement.

Although South Africa is a leading producer in gold, the safety of miners has been a long-term concern and criticised by many.

In February, over 900 miners were rescued from Beatrix gold mine in Theunissen city, following a loss of power after a thunderstorm. (ANI)

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