K92 Mining Limited, the operator of the Kainantu Gold Mine in Eastern Highlands Province, recently incurred damage to one of its surface exploration drill rigs, after a recently dismissed disgruntled employee started a fire at the drill site. The fire was extinguished but the drill rig sustained some damage and is currently being repaired. In a statement released today, the company said their other three drill rigs in the area continue to operate normally while the damaged drill rig is expected to return to service once repairs are completed. The mine currently has ten exploration drill rigs operating between their surface and underground exploration sites. Law enforcement has been engaged with the support of the local communities to seek the former employee. Relations with our local landowners remain strong and mutually beneficial. The company said despite the incident, relations with the local landowners remain strong and mutually beneficial.