Police in North West have launched an investigation into alleged extortion targeting the rescue operation at the Stilfontein gold mine.
Story Summary
- North West police are investigating a case of extortion involving a suspect demanding a 30% cut from the Stilfontein mine rescue team.
- The High Court has reserved judgment on an urgent application seeking relief for illegal miners underground, with the State asserting that exits remain accessible.
- Rescue efforts are ongoing as legal debates continue over the responsibility of mine operators and the State’s duty of care.
Stilfontein rescue efforts reportedly disrupted by extortionists
According to reports, a suspect reportedly demanded a 30% cut from the rescue team, tasked with aiding illegal miners believed to be stuck underground.
Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, a police spokesperson, confirmed the investigation on Thursday, explaining that the demand was made via a phone call on Wednesday.
“The individual contacted the team working on the shaft, demanding 30% of the project,” Mokgwabone stated.
This extortion attempt has added complexity to an already fraught rescue operation, which was initiated by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu in response to community outcry.
The rescue team, described as experts in mine safety and recovery, was deployed to help miners resurface from the disused shafts of the Buffelsfontein Gold Mine.
What is the latest in the Stilfontein case?
The Gauteng High Court has reserved judgment on an urgent application brought by the Society for the Protection of Our Constitution, seeking relief for miners trapped underground.
The court heard arguments on whether law enforcement efforts to block access to certain shafts are hindering miners from exiting safely.
High Court Judge Brenda Neukircher questioned the claims made by the applicants, particularly the lack of evidence that police are obstructing lawful exits.
The State has argued that miners are not trapped but are choosing to remain underground for fear of arrest.
Judge Neukircher emphasised that the Margaret Mine Shaft, deemed safer, has been made available for miners to exit.
The court will deliver a decision no later than Monday, addressing whether the State has provided sufficient care for the miners and if the mine owner, Buffelsfontein Gold Mines, should bear greater responsibility for their safety.
Meanwhile, the State maintains that its actions are lawful and aimed at safeguarding both the miners and surrounding communities from potential dangers.
