Rescue teams are working to save potentially hundreds of illegal miners trapped in one of South Africa’s deepest gold mines. The miners have been underground for months, with the mine surrounded by police.
Following a court order, 118 miners have been rescued in the past two days, but 36 have died, and the death toll is expected to rise. Reports suggest over 100 have died from starvation or dehydration.
Miners’ representatives claim at least 500 remain underground, many of whom are ill and starving. The miners have been trapped due to police blocking most exits, and sporadic deliveries of food and water have been made by relatives and aid organizations using ropes.
The miners reportedly fear arrest, while a human rights lawyer argues that the blocked shaft, two kilometers deep, is difficult to escape. Earlier, some miners escaped through other passages, but those have since been sealed.
Survivors face charges of illegal mining and immigration, as many entered from neighboring countries. Illegal mining is common in South Africa, with miners entering closed mines in search of gold remnants.
The government initially refused to help, with the Home Affairs Minister stating in November that criminals would not be assisted. Human rights groups have criticized the police response, and a court ruling in December mandated the provision of food, water, and medicine.
The mine, located in Stilfontein, has multiple shafts and a maze of tunnels. Families have gathered at the mine entrance, hoping for news.
Zinzi Tom, sister to a trapped miner, last spoke to her brother in July. Recently, a miner emerged with news that her brother was seen two weeks ago, very ill and struggling to survive.
The rescue operation is expected to continue for several more days.
Source: NOS