28 Jan 2021

Cameras being sent into Pike River Mine as part of police inquiry

6:55 pm on 28 January 2021

Cameras will be sent into Pike River Mine as part of the police investigation into the 2010 explosion which killed 29 men.

Cameras will be sent into Pike River Mine as part of the police investigation into the 2010 explosion which killed 29 men.

The cameras will examine three 300mm pipes that extend further into the mine workings and under the roof collapse. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police

Police are still investigating if there is any criminal culpability for the disaster.

A spokesperson said cameras will examine three 300mm pipes that extend further into the mine workings and under the roof collapse.

"This work will be in conjunction with the Pike River Recovery Agency and pipe inspection contractors.

"It is proposed to deploy remotely operated cameras into the pipes. If there are any breaks or openings in the pipes it is hoped this will enable a visual inspection of that area of the mine, the spokesperson said.

Police said they remained determined to do all they can to provide answers to the families from the police perspective and will continue to keep the families informed of our progress and work in support of the Pike River Recovery Agency.

It is not the first time a robot will be sent into the drift of the mine

Five days after the initial explosion an Army robot was sent into the drift of the mine but was destroyed during the second explosion.

It was recovered last year.