4,000 Illegal Miners Trapped Underground In Stilfontein

In a dire situation, an estimated 4,000 illegal miners remain stuck underground in an abandoned mine shaft in Stilfontein, North West. Reports suggest that several of these miners may have already succumbed to the harsh conditions.

In a bid to rescue those trapped, local community members have taken it upon themselves to descend into the dangerous shafts, as the police have deemed the environment too risky for their personnel. A volunteer who went underground on Tuesday provided the startling estimate of those trapped and reported potential fatalities.

Police and Community Collaboration

North West police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone revealed that the police are collaborating with community members to aid in bringing the miners to safety. However, once above ground, the miners face inevitable arrest due to their illegal activities.

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“We have been working with community volunteers to ensure these people are brought to the surface,” Mokgwabone told SABC News. “A volunteer estimated that about 4,000 illegal miners are still underground, with some in poor health. Sadly, we’ve received information indicating that some may have died.”

Despite the pressing need to rescue the miners, the police have made it clear that upon their rescue, the miners will be arrested. “Our priority is to assist them in resurfacing, but due to their illegal mining activities, they will face legal consequences,” Mokgwabone added.

Ongoing Operations Against Illegal Miners

This incident follows a recent operation in Orkney, where Operation Vala Umgodi led to the rescue of at least 500 illegal miners from abandoned mines. These miners, who had been deprived of food and water, emerged due to the efforts of SAPS and SANDF blocking supply routes to the miners.

Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the national police spokesperson, highlighted that the operation continues to monitor and prevent illegal mining activities across old mine shafts. This operation has led to significant arrests and the confiscation of valuables.

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Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, commended the ongoing efforts, stating, “We are vigilantly monitoring the situation in North West. Our mission is to ensure all illegal miners are brought to the surface and held accountable.”

Since the initiation of Operation Vala Umgodi in December 2023, over 13,691 individuals have been arrested across seven provinces known for illegal mining activities. The operation has also recovered R5 million in cash and uncut diamonds valued at R32 million.

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