Wesselsbron, Free State: The South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union (SACCAWU) is calling for an immediate and open investigation into the death of Comrade Victor Polori, a member of SACCAWU, who died after suffering a serious injury at LFC Milling in Wesselsbron, Free State, on Friday, 18 September 2026.
The incident happened at about 16:00 when Comrade Polori was caught in a roller mill machine. Comrade Polori subsequently died.
The union has been advised that his foot is missing.
SACCAWU wishes to express its deepest sympathy to the Polori family, his fellow workers and others affected by this tragic event. SACCAWU is extremely concerned regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether adequate occupational health and safety measures were implemented to protect workers.
SACCAWU believes that these issues must be addressed through a formal investigation rather than speculation. A prohibition notice has been issued against the company by the Department of Employment and Labour. SACCAWU welcomes this action taken by the Department of Employment and Labour and requests that a full investigation be carried out regarding the machinery, safety practices and conditions that contributed to the fatal incident.
In addition, SACCAWU is concerned about the psychological effects of the incident on workers who witnessed it. According to the information received by SACCAWU, affected workers did not receive immediate post-incident counselling. After intervention by SACCAWU and the Department of Employment and Labour, counselling services are now being arranged for affected workers.
SACCAWU Deputy General Secretary, Jerry Mmoneri stated, “Workers attend work to provide for themselves and their families; they do not go to work to lose their lives”. Therefore, Comrade Victor Polori’s death needs to be thoroughly investigated. Where it is found that LFC Milling failed to meet its obligations under workplace safety regulations, there must be accountability.
Production targets and business interests cannot justify placing workers at risk.
SACCAWU urges LFC Milling to fully cooperate with the investigation and ensure no worker is placed at risk while the investigation continues. SACCAWU will work with the Department of Employment and Labour and LFC Milling to ensure that affected workers receive the support they need and that the investigation is concluded appropriately.
The loss of Comrade Victor Polori should not be seen merely as another statistic of workplace deaths. Workers have a right to a safe workplace and should be able to return home after each shift.
SACCAWU will continue to stand with the Polori family and affected workers as they seek answers and accountability for what happened.
Issued by: SACCAWU Secretariat