Torex to resume operations after fatal accident at Mexico mine

Torex Gold Resources expects to resume operations at its Morelos complex in Guerrero state, Mexico, after authorities lifted a temporary suspension notice after a fatal accident left three workers dead.

“Following notification that the director general of mines has lifted the temporary suspension, all production and development activities at the Morelos Complex will resume, including open-pit and underground mining, processing operations, and all activities associated with the Media Luna Project,” Jody Kuzenko, president and CEO of Torex, said in a release.

Earlier this month, Torex reported that two employees and a subcontracted worker were fatally exposed to carbon monoxide gas at the El Limón Guajes (ELG) underground mine during the December 5 day shift.

Following the accident, Mexico's director general of mines, part of the economy ministry, ordered Toronto-based Torex to temporarily suspend all activities at the Morelos complex to conduct an inspection.

With the suspension now lifted, Torex’s employees and contractor partners can return to work as the company continues its internal investigation.

Despite the temporary halt, Kuzenko confirmed that the company’s full-year 2024 production guidance remains on track, albeit near the lower end of the projected range of 450,000-470,000oz of gold. “The project schedule for Media Luna remains unchanged, with the four-week processing plant tie-in period set to begin in February 2025,” she added.

“As we ramp up operations and work to conclude our Media Luna project, we will never forget the tragic loss of three of our colleagues at ELG Underground,” Kuzenko stated. “We will continue to work with strengthened resolve to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in our workplace now and in the future.”

The Morelos complex, Torex's flagship asset, comprises the ELG mine complex, the US$950mn Media Luna project, a processing plant and associated infrastructure.