It is a desperate situation unfolding at Shaft 11 of the Stilfontein mine in the North West, with members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) set to commence the second phase of their operation aimed at retrieving illegal miners still trapped underground. The operation seeks to ascertain the number of miners who remain below the surface and formulate plans for their safe return to the surface on Monday.
Authorities have ramped up their efforts in response to alarming reports of extortion targeting contractors tasked with clearing the site, exacerbating an already volatile scenario. Families of those presumed to be trapped underground have raised the stakes, pleading with the government for speedy intervention to rescue their loved ones.
Despite governmental assurances, community representatives continue to voice their concerns, with many asserting that thousands of illegal miners are still underground awaiting rescue—a stark contrast to the government’s claims. As families stay hopeful, they stress the urgent necessity for food, water, and medication for their loved ones who have been cut off from these essential resources.
Highlighting the unfolding tragedy that could have dire consequences, Zwelinzima Vavi, General Secretary of the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU), expressed solidarity with the families during a press briefing. He lamented the lack of action since the operation commenced, stating, “Between Tuesday and today, no one has been rescued, no one has got any food, water or medicine. People will probably die even though they used to be there for three to six months. Without any supply of food, water, and medicine, they will probably die without any efforts to bring them to the surface.”