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Rescue Operation Underway as 36 Dead and 82 Survivors Pulled from South African Illegal Gold Mine
Rescue Efforts Continue Amid Ongoing Crisis
South African rescuers have retrieved 36 dead bodies and 82 survivors from a gold mine deep underground, following two days of intense operations. The miners were trapped after a months-long siege by police aiming to combat illegal mining activities in the Stilfontein area, located about 150 km from Johannesburg.
Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Police began their siege in August, cutting off food and water supplies to force miners out. The operation, part of a broader government effort to curb illegal mining, has raised serious concerns, with human rights groups and local residents calling for more compassionate measures.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
The rescue mission involves using a metal cage to extract miners and bodies from the mine shaft, which is more than 2 km underground. Despite these efforts, hundreds more men and additional bodies remain trapped. Rescuers have pledged to continue their work for several more days, with daily updates on progress.
Survivors Face Legal Consequences
While 82 survivors have been rescued, all of them face charges related to illegal mining, trespassing, and violations of the Immigration Act. Two survivors are also facing additional charges for possession of gold. The crackdown on illegal mining, referred to as “Vala Umgodi” (Close the Hole), has been described by officials as a necessary step to protect the economy.
Human Rights Concerns and Local Protests
The government’s actions have drawn criticism from various groups. Human rights organizations and local residents argue that the aggressive approach exacerbates the suffering of already vulnerable individuals. A small protest outside a police briefing in Stilfontein on Tuesday called for the release of miners, with one placard reading: “STOP THE SACRIFICE. #FREETHEMINERS.”
A Personal Tragedy
For many families, including local resident Matumelo, the uncertainty of their loved ones’ fate is devastating. Matumelo’s husband has been trapped in the mine since June, and she has not heard from him since August. Like many others, she is left wondering whether her loved one is alive or dead.