New investment fuels growth as Exploration Logistics Group takes ownership of MineTech International

The UK-based remote site medical and safety specialist, Exploration Logistics Group, has acquired full ownership of MineTech International. The move marks the beginning of significant new investment in MineTech, which begins its 20th year as a global leader in landmine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal with the full backing and support of an international organisation 100% committed to expansion and development.

All MineTech operational and financial management functions have now been fully integrated at Exploration Logistics Group's head office following a transfer of personnel from Harare in Zimbabwe to Mitcheldean in Gloucestershire, where more than 60 personnel are now employed to manage the provision of remote site safety and support services to commercial and humanitarian organisations worldwide. The restructuring significantly enhances the depth and breadth of resources available to MineTech customers, a move which has already contributed to securing several key new contracts. With teams deployed in Zambia, Yemen, Libya, Sudan and Iraq, MineTech has this month acquired a new landmine clearance contract for Total E&P, also in Libya, and has been awarded the UNOPS Mine Action contract to provide an emergency response capacity to support clearance operations in Chad.

Managing Director, Mike Jaques believes the move is fundamental in ensuring MineTech's ongoing innovation and development. "MineTech has built a well-deserved reputation for tackling tough jobs expertly and efficiently, something we intend to continue. Building on this, with the benefits of enhanced management and ongoing investment, our mission for MineTech is to develop the skills, quality procedures, equipment and technology that minimise risk, as well as striving towards continually improving performance to enable areas of pollution to be managed or eradicated more efficiently and effectively. Above all, we are committed to developing a sustainable business, one built on growth, efficiency and profitability, that guarantees MineTech's role in driving forward integrated landmine clearance and Explosives Ordnance Disposal way into the future."

A crisp new visual identity and fresh new faces amongst the senior management team at MineTech are the first external signs of restructuring and investment in the firm. Mark Hutchings, former Chief Operating Officer with Kroll Security Group, has joined as Group Operations Director with the prime role of ensuring the organisation meets its missions and objectives. Max Dyck, who has led operations for MineTech for three years, brings his extensive experience in the field of landmine and EOD clearance direct to MineTech customers, taking on a new role as Business Development Manager. He will be supported by Nico Bosman who joins MineTech after ten years managing demining initiatives in countries including Libya, Afghanistan, Bosnia and Iraq. Initially based in Sudan, Nico will have a key role to play supporting the needs of humanitarian and commercial organisations working across Africa.

Colonel Lionel Dyck, who has been a leading international figure in landmine clearance for 15 years, stands down as MineTech Chairman. Adds Mike Jaques, "Colonel Dyck has earned international respect for his extensive knowledge and enormous contribution to increasing efficiency in landmine and EOD clearance. Although retiring as Chairman, we are very pleased that Lionel will continue to play an integral and valued role as consultant on major projects for MineTech."

Established in 1986, Exploration Logistics Group utilises the skills of more than 750 medics, consultants, training and field personnel around the world, specialists in demining and explosive ordnance disposal, the provision of explosive detecting dog teams, Health and Safety audits, project management, off-road and defensive driver training, steep terrain activity and medical support.