Fugitive Illegal Mining Kingpin Escapes Police Custody In Stilfontein

North West acting police commissioner, Maj-Gen Patrick Asaneng, has vowed swift action following the escape of an alleged illegal mining kingpin, James Neo Tshoaeli, known as “Tiger,” from police custody. The Lesotho national, a key figure in the Stilfontein illegal mining operations, disappeared after surfacing from shaft 11 last week.

Investigation into Escape

Police spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe confirmed that extensive investigations are underway to identify the officials responsible for aiding Tiger’s escape.

“Tiger was never booked into any police stations or hospitals after surfacing. He is considered a dangerous fugitive,” said Mathe.

Tiger is accused of leading underground operations, allegedly hoarding food, and being responsible for deaths, assaults, and torture among illegal miners.

Asaneng expressed disappointment over the incident, calling it an embarrassment to the ongoing Vala Umgodi operation, which has been targeting illegal mining activities since December 2023.

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“Heads will roll. Those responsible for this shameful lapse will be brought to book, and Tiger will be apprehended,” he said.

Privacy Breaches and Allegations Denied

The police also addressed allegations of blasting near shaft 10, confirming through an explosives team that no such activity occurred.

Mathe criticised the public sharing of personal information about illegal miners, noting that community-shared lists were intended to assist in locating next-of-kin, not for circulation on social media.

In a related development, it emerged that Mzwandile Mkwayi, a volunteer who assisted in rescuing miners, violated his parole conditions. Convicted of murder in 2013 and on parole since 2021, Mkwayi left his designated jurisdiction without prior approval and conducted unauthorised media interviews.

Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo confirmed Mkwayi has been formally warned but remains on parole until his sentence expires in 2028.

Police have urged the public to provide information about Tiger’s whereabouts to the Stilfontein police station.

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