
Police and private security personnel gather at the entrance of a re-opened gold mineshaft in Stilfontein, South Africa, where illegal miners remain trapped as of Nov. 15, 2024.
In a bid to safely retrieve illegal miners stuck in a disused gold mine southwest of Johannesburg, South African authorities have assembled an inter-agency task force that includes mine rescue specialists. The move follows a visit by a government team, led by the police minister, to the site on Friday.
Senzo Mchunu, a senior official, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “A quicker resolution is essential due to the significant risk and danger these miners face.” He highlighted the need for coordinated efforts involving various agencies, including the South African National Defense Force, and appealed for cooperation from the local community.
The 2,500-meter-deep mineshaft presents a significant challenge for any intervention, with officials noting that some miners might be armed. Authorities have blocked the mine’s entrances to cut off the flow of food and supplies, aiming to compel the miners to surface and face arrest.
Since the start of a government crackdown on illegal mining operations, law enforcement has confiscated 369 firearms, 10,000 rounds of ammunition, 5 million rand ($275,000) in cash, and uncut diamonds worth 32 million rand ($1.75 million).
On Thursday, a body believed to belong to one of the trapped miners was brought to the surface. Police are working to confirm the identity and cause of death. Meanwhile, families of the miners endure a mix of anxiety and hope. Priscilla, whose four relatives are among those trapped, shared, “Only my partner has made it out so far. I remain hopeful, even as bodies are being recovered.”
Community member Xuna voiced frustration, urging empathy from officials: “If it were their children suffering underground, would they act differently? I hope the minister’s visit brought home the gravity of the situation.”
While early reports suggested up to 4,000 miners might be trapped, police now estimate the number at around 400. Over 1,000 miners have already emerged from different sites in the North West province, many in dire condition after weeks without basic necessities.
Families and local residents have called on the government to intensify efforts, with some community members taking it upon themselves to rescue miners.