A desperate struggle for survival, sharp criticism of the authorities and millions in damage to the South African economy: in the disused gold mine near Stilfontein in South Africa, the drama surrounding captured illegal miners comes to a head. So far, 78 bodies have been recovered from the two-kilometer-deep shaft.
The situation of gold seekers in an abandoned mine in South Africa is becoming increasingly dramatic. So far, 78 bodies have been recovered, while 166 survivors have been rescued. However, they were immediately arrested for illegal mining.
Illegal mining in the crosshairs of the authorities
No one counted how many miners went underground. “We are focused on catching them and helping them escape.” The siege of the mine in Stilfontein, about 150 kilometers from Johannesburg, began in August.
The aim is to combat illegal mining, which has been a thorn in the side of the South African precious metals industry for decades. Typically, these are mines that have been abandoned by companies because they are no longer profitable on a large scale.
Mission ‘Close the Hole’ started
Unlicensed miners are taking advantage of the opportunity to mine what’s left. However, according to estimates from an industry association, the government and industry lose hundreds of millions of dollars in sales, taxes and royalties every year. That is why the ‘Close the Hole’ mission was started. Mines Minister Gwede Mantashe said the siege of the Stilfontein mine was necessary and was about a “war on the economy”.
Sharp criticism of the actions of the authorities
However, local residents and human rights organizations are sharply critical: the food and water supply to the gold seekers in the mine was cut off for months to force them to return to the surface. They risk arrest for illegal mining, violating or violating immigration laws.
In November, Presidential Office Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said no aid would be sent to criminals. “We will smoke them out.” However, in December a court allowed volunteers to deliver supplies to the captured men. Last week the state was ordered by the court to start a rescue operation. It has been going on since the beginning of the week and is expected to continue for days.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
