CAPE TOWN, South Africa — Hundreds of miners are believed to be trapped in an abandoned gold mine near Stilfontein, approximately 150 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg. Reports suggest that over 100 miners may have perished due to starvation or dehydration, while an estimated 500 remain underground, many in dire health conditions.The situation has sparked widespread criticism of South African authorities for their delayed response to what many are calling a humanitarian crisis.
How Long Have the Miners Been Underground?
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The exact duration of their entrapment remains unclear, but evidence indicates they have been underground since at least November. Some local residents claim their family members have been in the mine as July, nearly six months ago. Illegal mining is a persistent issue in South Africa, notably in gold-rich regions where companies abandon unprofitable mines. Informal miners, often referred to as “zama zamas,” venture into these sites to extract leftover deposits, sometimes staying underground for months at a time. They rely on supplies sent from the surface, including food, water, and equipment, to sustain their operations.
In an attempt to force the miners out, police cut off their supply lines last year, dismantling ropes and pulley systems used to transport essentials. A Cabinet minister defended the strategy, stating the goal was to “smoke them out” and that the government would not assist because the miners were “criminals.” This approach has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, who argue that it endangered lives. In December, a court ruling compelled authorities to allow food, water, and medicine to be sent underground again. Though, advocates claim the supplies are insufficient for the hundreds still trapped.
Some miners have managed to escape in recent months, only to be arrested upon surfacing. Police cite these cases as evidence that the miners can leave voluntarily. Though, representatives from the Mining Affected Communities United in action group counter that escaping requires a perilous, days-long journey through underground tunnels, a feat many are too weak to attempt.
The Broader context of illegal Mining
The Stilfontein incident is part of a larger crackdown on illegal mining gangs, known as “zama zamas,” which translates to “hustlers” in Zulu. These groups have long plagued South Africa, exploiting abandoned mines and costing the country nearly $1 billion annually in lost revenue. With an estimated 6,000 deserted mines nationwide, the issue remains a meaningful challenge for law enforcement and policymakers.
Current Rescue Efforts
Community-led rescue operations began last Friday, successfully retrieving survivors and bodies from the Buffelsfontein mine. Official rescue efforts commenced on Monday, with authorities using a cage to lower teams into the mine. So far, police report recovering at least 60 bodies and rescuing over 90 survivors. The operation continues as teams work to locate and assist those still trapped.
For more updates on this developing story, visit AP Africa news.
What are the systemic issues that drive people to risk their lives in abandoned mines?
Archyde News Interview: A Humanitarian Crisis in Stilfontein
Interviewer: Sarah Thompson, Senior Editor at Archyde
Alex Reed: Dr. James Mbeki, Mining Safety Expert and Humanitarian Consultant
Sarah Thompson: Good evening, dr. Mbeki. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the unfolding crisis in Stilfontein. Reports indicate that hundreds of miners are trapped in an abandoned gold mine, with over 100 feared dead due to starvation and dehydration. Can you provide us with some context about how this situation escalated to such a critical point?
Dr. James Mbeki: Thank you, Sarah. This is indeed a tragic and deeply concerning situation. The Stilfontein mine, like many abandoned mines in South africa, has long been a site of illegal mining activity. Desperate individuals, frequently enough referred to as “zama-zamas,” enter these shafts in search of gold or mineral residues to sell for survival. The risks are enormous—these mines are unstable, lack proper ventilation, and are often flooded. What makes this situation notably alarming is the sheer number of miners involved and the authorities’ decision to block food and water supplies, which has exacerbated the crisis.
Sarah Thompson: You mentioned the authorities’ response. There has been widespread criticism of the South African government for their delayed action. What are your thoughts on their handling of the situation?
Dr. James Mbeki: The criticism is warranted. While it’s true that illegal mining is a important problem in South Africa, the response to this crisis has been inadequate and, in some ways, counterproductive. Blocking food and water supplies to the miners is not onyl inhumane but also escalates the risk of fatalities. The priority should have been to ensure the safety and well-being of those trapped while addressing the root causes of illegal mining. Instead, we’ve seen a delayed and heavy-handed approach that has cost lives.
Sarah Thompson: What immediate steps should be taken to address this crisis and prevent further loss of life?
Dr. James Mbeki: Frist and foremost, there needs to be an immediate rescue operation. This requires collaboration between government agencies, mining experts, and humanitarian organizations. The miners need medical attention, food, and water as quickly as possible. Beyond the immediate crisis, we must address the systemic issues that drive people to risk their lives in abandoned mines. This includes creating economic opportunities, regulating artisanal mining, and providing support to communities that rely on these activities for survival.
Sarah Thompson: You’ve worked extensively on mining safety and humanitarian issues. What long-term solutions do you propose to prevent such tragedies in the future?
Dr. James Mbeki: Long-term solutions require a multi-faceted approach. First, we need stricter enforcement of mining regulations to prevent illegal activities. Second, abandoned mines must be properly sealed and monitored to deter access. Third, and most importantly, we must address the socio-economic factors that push people into illegal mining. This means investing in education, job creation, and community development. Additionally, the government should consider formalizing artisanal mining, providing miners with the tools and training they need to work safely and legally.
Sarah Thompson: Dr. Mbeki, what message would you like to convey to the families of the miners and the broader public as this crisis unfolds?
Dr. James Mbeki: To the families, I extend my deepest condolences. This is an unimaginable tragedy, and my heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones.To the public, I urge compassion and awareness. These miners are not criminals; they are individuals driven by desperation. We must hold our leaders accountable and demand action to prevent such crises in the future.This is not just a mining issue—it’s a humanitarian issue that requires collective effort and empathy.
Sarah Thompson: Thank you, Dr. Mbeki, for your insights and expertise. We hope that your recommendations will be taken seriously as the world watches this crisis unfold.
Dr. James Mbeki: Thank you, Sarah. It’s my hope that this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call for meaningful change.
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End of Interview
This interview was conducted by Sarah Thompson, Senior Editor at Archyde, on January 14, 2025.
