By: Problyn J Alpha
The family of Abass Kabia, a mining truck driver who reportedly died in a workplace accident at the concession of Gold Lion Mining Company Sierra Leone Limited in Nimikoro Chiefdom, Kono District, has allegedly been left to handle his remains at the Koidu Government Hospital mortuary without support from the company.
According to information reaching this medium, Kabia was employed as a mining truck driver attached to JAI Fleet, a subcontractor operating in the mining workshop of Gold Lion Mining Company Sierra Leone Limited.
He reportedly died last Saturday at about 2:00 p.m. while on duty after being involved in an accident while operating a reportedly unlicensed mining vehicle or machine at the company’s concession.
Sources allege that inadequate safety measures and the absence or shortage of appropriate protective equipment contributed to the incident. They further claim that Kabia did not receive swift first-aid treatment following the accident and that it took several hours for his remains to be transported to the Koidu Government Hospital mortuary.
Since his remains were deposited at the mortuary, the family alleges that no representative of Gold Lion Mining Company has visited or contacted them to formally sympathize over the death.
The family further alleges that the company has denied responsibility for Kabia’s death, raising questions about potential obligations under Sierra Leone’s employment and workers’ compensation laws.
Meanwhile, Paramount Chief Aiah Delton Bona of Nimikoro Chiefdom is reported to have intervened by presenting Le1, 500 and two bags of rice to the bereaved family as funeral support on behalf of the chiefdom and himself.
The Paramount Chief is also said to have appealed to the deceased’s family, friends and loved ones to remain calm while he engages the management of Gold Lion Mining Company to address the matter.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are reportedly underway, with the Office of National Security, the Senior District Officer and the National Minerals Agency said to be involved in inquiries at the mining concession.
Despite the reported death of Kabia, sources claim that operations at the mining site have continued, with the company allegedly failing to suspend operations following the incident.
The allegations surrounding the accident, the company’s response and its potential legal obligations remain subject to the outcome of the ongoing investigations.