Freeport Underground Mine Accident Victims: Identities Confirmed
The Freeport underground mine accident victims have been identified after a tragic incident at the Grasberg Block Cave (GBC) in Tembagapura, Mimika, Papua. A wet material slide trapped several workers in the underground mine.
On Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 08:45 WIT, the rescue team of PT Freeport Indonesia recovered the bodies of two workers. The victims of the Freeport underground mine accident are:
Wigih Hartono, Electrician, PT Cita Contract
Irawan, Electrician, PT Cita Contract
Official Statement from PT Freeport Indonesia
Tony Wenas, President Director of PT Freeport Indonesia, expressed his condolences in an official release.
“On behalf of the company and personally, I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the victims. PT Freeport Indonesia will continue to support the families during this difficult time.”
He also said the rescue team worked day and night, taking serious risks to reach the victims.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Search operations are still underway for five other workers trapped underground. Freeport asked the public to send prayers and moral support for the rescue team.
The company also thanked the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), BPBD, and BASARNAS for their assistance during the evacuation.
Related article: Underground Landslide PT. Freeport Indonesia
Leadership and International Support
Richard Adkerson, Chairman of Freeport-McMoRan, and President & CEO Kathleen Quirk, together with Tony Wenas, inspected the rescue operations at the Grasberg site.
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources confirmed that seven workers were trapped. The group included five Indonesians, one Chilean, and one South African. The government has coordinated with the embassies of the affected countries.
Impact on Operations
The Freeport underground mine accident forced the company to halt operations in the GBC area. According to ESDM officials, this suspension will reduce production by about 30%.