A notorious gang leader known as “Tiger” escaped police custody after being rescued from a collapsed illegal gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa, where at least 78 miners died, authorities said Monday.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed that “Tiger,” a Lesotho national, resurfaced from a deep mine shaft surrounded by law enforcement last week. He was supposed to be escorted to a police station for detention but disappeared before being formally booked.
“During a routine inspection, it became clear he was no longer in custody,” Mathe told local broadcaster SABC. “Preliminary investigations indicate he was released between the mine site and the police station, likely with internal assistance.”
A manhunt is underway, and authorities are investigating the possible involvement of police officers in his escape. Meanwhile, three other suspected ringleaders remain in custody.
The incident has intensified scrutiny on the police’s handling of the months-long siege at the mine, during which food and water supplies were cut off in an attempt to force illegal miners out. Critics say this approach contributed to the deaths underground.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana rejected accusations that the government bore responsibility for the fatalities. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, he stated: “These were individuals engaging in illegal activities. To hold the state accountable is misplaced.”
Last week’s rescue operation saw 246 survivors pulled from the mine, many in critical condition after enduring starvation. Survivors reported that food supplies were hoarded by gang leaders, leaving most miners to suffer.
Illegal gold mining is widespread in South Africa, with abandoned industrial mines attracting thousands of miners. Authorities say these operations are often controlled by gangs based in Lesotho, which recruit vulnerable workers from neighboring countries under false pretenses.