Over 100 Illegal Miners Reported Dead After Being Trapped in South African Gold Mine

In South Africa, over 100 illegal miners have died after being trapped in an abandoned gold mine for months. The Mining Affected Communities United in Action Group reported that police efforts to rescue them were ongoing. Videos from a mobile phone showed bodies wrapped in plastic underground. The miners were believed to have died from starvation or dehydration.

Police began their operation in November to remove the miners from the North West province mine. Since Friday, 18 bodies have been recovered, with nine retrieved by the community and another nine by authorities on Monday. Additionally, 26 survivors were rescued during the official operation.

Illegal Mining Challenges

Illegal mining is prevalent in South Africa, especially when companies abandon unprofitable mines. Informal miners often enter these sites to find leftover deposits. They typically stay underground for extended periods, bringing supplies like food and water, but also relying on surface support for additional resources.

The Buffelsfontein Gold Mine near Stilfontein has been a focal point of this crisis. Police and miners have been at a standoff since authorities attempted to seal the mine two months ago. Miners feared arrest and were left trapped when police removed their ropes and cut off food supplies.

Rescue Efforts and Challenges

Police spokesperson Brig Sebata Mokgwabone stated that they are still verifying the number of bodies recovered and survivors rescued. The mine's complex structure, with multiple shafts and tunnels, complicates rescue efforts. Mnguni estimated that around 500 miners remain underground in various locations within the mine.

The videos released by Mnguni's group depict emaciated men sitting near the deceased in dark tunnels. The preliminary autopsy of one body indicated death by starvation, highlighting the dire conditions underground.

Authorities continue their rescue operations amid uncertainty about the exact number of miners still trapped. The Buffelsfontein Gold Mine is one of South Africa's deepest mines, reaching depths of 2.5 kilometres, making rescue operations challenging.

The situation underscores the risks associated with illegal mining and the need for effective solutions to address these challenges in South Africa's mining sector.