BHP Reports Nine Fatalities In Samarco Dam Incident

(RTTNews) - Mining giant BHP Billiton Ltd. (BHP.AX, BLT.L, BBL, BHP) Friday gave an update on the incident at the Samarco Mineração S.A iron ore operation in Minas Gerais, Brazil on November 5. BHP Billiton and Vale holds a 50 percent interest each in Samarco.

At this stage, there are nine fatalities. Four people previously unaccounted for have been found and 19 people remain unaccounted for.

Through emergency response, 637 people have been evacuated and temporary accommodation has been provided.

Further, an Environmental Recovery Plan will be developed by Samarco with the support of an external expert. Samarco is also developing a plan to reinforce the dam structures and stabilise the area.

Samarco employees have been put on paid leave and options are being considered for managing the workforce longer term.