Peruvian authorities have launched an investigation into an accident at the giant Las Bambas copper mine that killed two workers and injured three others.
The incident occurred on Tuesday during the replacement of a pump at a clarification pond, about 9km from the Las Bambas processing plant, according to majority owner MMG (HKG:1208).
Following the accident, MMG halted activities in the affected area and temporarily suspended operations across Las Bambas.
The company expects a progressive restart of operations from 21 August.
Peru’s National Superintendency of Labour Inspection, known as Sunafil, has launched an investigation into the incident.
Major copper producer
Located more than 4,000m above sea level in Peru’s Apurímac region, Las Bambas is one of the world’s largest copper mines.
The open pit operation accounts for an estimated 2% of global copper production, making any prolonged disruption significant for the global market.
Las Bambas has already faced frequent operational interruptions in recent years, largely due to protests by surrounding communities seeking greater economic benefits from the mine.
Since beginning operations in 2016, Las Bambas has experienced about 600 days of disruptions, according to estimates cited by Reuters.
The latest halt adds to ongoing copper supply concerns across South America, the world’s key producing region.
Lundin Mining (TSX:LUN) recently lowered its 2026 copper production guidance after severe winter weather caused another disruption at its Caserones operation high in the Chilean Andes.
Write to Jackson Chen at Mining.com.au
Image: MMG
