In brief
In a close to grim rescue operations, South Africa authorities announce that all illegal miners are believed to be accounted for at the Stilfontein gold mine, where over 200 survivors were rescued and 78 bodies recovered amidst rising tensions around illegal mining in the country.
In a significant announcement that marks the end of a harrowing rescue operation, volunteers working alongside rescue teams in South Africa have stated that there are no longer any illegal miners trapped underground at the Stilfontein gold mine. Following a recent court order compelling rescue efforts, at least 78 bodies have been recovered, with over 200 survivors being pulled to safety since Monday.The tragic events began last November when the South African government took a hard stance against illegal mining, implementing orders for police to arrest any miner who surfaced. This led to a cat-and-mouse situation, where miners remained underground, fearing arrest or coercion from gangs controlling these abandoned sites. Local law enforcement indicated they would verify that no individuals are still underground, especially when a rescue cage is sent down the mine later today. A police spokesperson emphasized the need for confirmation from the Mine Rescue Service, who are equipped with advanced technology to assess the underground situation.The Stilfontein mine, located approximately 145 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg, has attracted government scrutiny due to the increasing prevalence of gang-controlled operations selling minerals on the black market. This particular mine has a history, having been abandoned by major companies over the past 30 years due to unprofitability, leaving it susceptible to illegal activities.Many rescued miners reported being trapped underground without food and water since November, resulting in severe malnutrition among the survivors. They are now receiving medical attention as the authorities prepare charges against them for illegal mining, trespassing, and immigration violations, given that many are undocumented migrants from neighboring nations such as Lesotho and Mozambique.Mines Minister Gwede Mantashe underscored the government's determination to clamp down on these operations, stating, "It's a crime against the economy, it's an attack on the economy." With unemployment in South Africa surpassing 30%, many former miners assert they are left with few viable income alternatives, thus fueling the ongoing dilemma surrounding illegal mining practices.
