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Rescuers Retrieve Survivors and Bodies from South African Mine




What Happened?


Rescuers in South Africa have brought 82 emaciated survivors and 36 bodies to the surface from an abandoned gold mine near Stilfontein, southwest of Johannesburg. Hundreds of miners are believed to remain trapped underground, with many presumed dead or too weak to emerge.


The mine, Buffelsfontein Gold Mine, became the focus of rescue efforts after South African authorities initially cut off food and water supplies in November to force out illegal miners.


The Numbers


  • 82 survivors and 36 bodies were retrieved since Monday.

  • 9 additional bodies were recovered Friday in a community-led rescue.

  • Activists estimate over 100 miners have died due to starvation or dehydration.

  • Authorities believe hundreds more remain underground.


The Controversy


  • Authorities claim miners underground can emerge but refuse to do so out of fear of arrest.

  • Rights groups dispute this, stating miners are too weak to climb out due to starvation and the removal of ropes and pulley systems.

  • A court ruling forced the government to allow basic supplies to be sent down, but critics argue the efforts came too late to prevent deaths.


Illegal Mining in South Africa


Illegal mining is widespread in South Africa, particularly in abandoned gold mines. Informal miners, often from neighboring countries, enter mines searching for leftover deposits. Groups can remain underground for months, relying on surface teams for supplies.


Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe reported that 1,500 miners from the Buffelsfontein mine have been arrested since a crackdown on illegal mining began in late 2023.


Harrowing Accounts


Cellphone videos from inside the mine reveal harrowing scenes:

  • Emaciated miners pleading for food and rescue.

  • Dozens of bodies are wrapped in plastic.

Local families have gathered near the mine, awaiting news of their loved ones. Zinzi Tom, whose brother has been missing since July, fears for his survival after hearing he is "very sick and struggling."


Government’s Role Under Scrutiny


The South African government faces criticism for its approach:

  • Police tactics, including cutting off supplies, were described by officials as a strategy to "smoke out" the miners.

  • Cabinet Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni referred to the miners as "criminals" unworthy of aid, further intensifying the backlash.


Next Steps


The rescue operation is set to continue for 10 days, after which authorities will reassess. Activists and civic groups continue to demand comprehensive rescue efforts to save those still underground.


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