South African rescuers have recovered 36 bodies and saved 82 people from a gold mine during a two-day operation, police reported on Tuesday. The rescued individuals are expected to face charges related to illegal mining and immigration.
Police have been monitoring the mine since August, cutting off food and water supplies for months to force the miners to surface for arrest as part of a campaign against illegal mining.
According to a miners’ rights group, many more men and bodies remain trapped underground. The group released footage showing deceased and severely malnourished survivors within the mine.
The rescue involves using a metal cage to retrieve individuals and remains from over 2 kilometers deep. Operations will continue for several days, with daily updates on the situation.
A media team witnessed a man being carried out on a stretcher and a group of men, including one emaciated, surrounded by police and paramedics in Stilfontein, about 150 km from Johannesburg.
Illegal mining typically occurs in abandoned mines no longer profitable for companies. Unlicensed miners, often from other African countries, seek remaining valuable materials.
The South African government has justified the Stilfontein mine siege as part of a larger effort to combat illegal mining. Mining Minister Gwede Mantashe called it “a war on the economy,” citing an estimated 60 billion rand loss from the illicit trade last year.
Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni stated in November that no assistance would be given to criminals, emphasizing a need to “smoke them out.” However, court rulings in December and last week mandated that supplies be sent to the trapped individuals and that a rescue operation commence.
The 82 individuals rescued will face charges related to illegal mining, trespassing, and immigration violations, with two facing additional charges for possessing gold.
This crackdown, part of the “Vala Umgodi” or “Close the hole” operation, has faced criticism from human rights groups and locals. A resident, Matumelo, shared concerns for her husband, who entered the mine in June. Since receiving a letter from him in August, she has had no contact and has given birth in his absence.
A small protest by residents and rights groups took place during a police and mining officials’ briefing. One placard read, “STOP THE SACRIFICE. #FREETHEMINERS.”
