On Thursday, authorities confirmed the retrieval of one body from an abandoned mine shaft in Stilfontein, North West.
Story Summary:
- One body has been retrieved from the Stilfontein mine, where over 4,000 illegal miners remain trapped.
- Efforts by local volunteers led to the recovery, while authorities monitor the site and cut supplies.
- Government officials plan to visit Stilfontein to assess the situation amid an ongoing non-intervention policy.
Stilfontein mine shaft latest news: Here’s what we know
The body, reportedly in a decomposed state, was brought to the surface around 11:00 by a group of 44 local volunteers, who used ropes to pull it out.
Police collected the remains and transported them for further examination.
The operation has intensified concerns about the thousands of illegal miners, also known as “zama zamas,” who are still trapped underground.
The Stilfontein mine site has been under close watch since authorities launched an extensive clampdown on illegal mining in the area.
In recent weeks, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have enforced blockades to prevent food and water from reaching those trapped underground.
This approach is part of “Operation Vala Umgodi,” a national campaign aimed at halting illegal mining activities across the country.
The situation underground: Health risks and limited rescues
While law enforcement has maintained a strong stance against intervention, five miners were pulled to safety on Wednesday.
These individuals, reportedly from South Africa, Mozambique, and Lesotho, appeared frail and were in urgent need of medical attention after enduring prolonged periods without adequate food and water.
Their rescue was also aided by local volunteers, who signed indemnity agreements and provided support by pulling the miners out using ropes.
Community leader Thembile Botman described the harsh conditions underground, which have left those remaining at risk of severe dehydration and malnutrition.
Authorities have refrained from initiating a formal rescue mission, with officials stating that their objective is to prevent unlawful mining rather than provide aid.
According to North West police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone, law enforcement will not conduct retrieval operations for those still underground, though they are prepared to take miners into custody if they surface voluntarily.
Officials from the police and defence ministries are expected to visit Stilfontein on Friday, where they plan to engage with local law enforcement and mining authorities to evaluate the ongoing operation.
The visit is intended to “assess progress on the ground, challenges, and work out appropriate responses,” according to Police Ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi.
