South African authorities have rescued 118 illegal miners from an abandoned mine shaft in Stilfontein, but the operation also uncovered a tragic loss of life. 56 miners were found alive, while 27 were sadly deceased. Law enforcement has arrested 82 individuals on charges related to illegal mining and immigration violations. Volunteer accounts describe the horrifying conditions underground, with numerous deceased bodies discovered.
Authorities in South Africa have confirmed the rescue of 118 illegal miners from an abandoned mine shaft in Stilfontein this week. On Tuesday alone, 83 miners were extracted, with 56 found alive and 27 tragically deceased. Law enforcement agencies have also made significant progress in apprehending those responsible for the illegal mining activities, arresting 82 individuals facing charges related to illegal mining, trespassing, and violations of the Immigration Act.
Two miners were discovered in possession of gold and have been charged accordingly with the illegal possession of gold-bearing material.Mandla Charles, one of the volunteers involved in the rescue efforts, described the harrowing conditions encountered underground. He stated, 'What I saw underground is terrible.' He continued, 'There are more than 109 dead bodies and they are decomposed. What I saw traumatises me even when I talk about it I'm still traumatised.' Charles emphasized the urgent need to recover more bodies, stating, 'We want to retrieve at least 50 dead bodies. I couldn't count how many people still remain underground because some are way further deep in the shafts.' He explained that the team had discovered a large number of miners trapped within a specific section of the shaft, adding, 'But the ones we were within the shaft yesterday could be almost 100. So they sent letters to other sections where they stay to say we are here to help them they must come.'This incident highlights the dangerous and often deadly consequences of illegal mining, which continues to be a major problem in South Africa. The government and law enforcement agencies are working to combat this issue through increased patrols, arrests, and efforts to provide alternative employment opportunities for those involved in illegal mining.
Illegal Mining South Africa Stilfontein Mine Shaft Rescue Fatalities
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