By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
14 January 2025- Rescue operations at shaft 11 in Stilfontein commenced yesterday afternoon with the retrieval of 35 illegal miners. This follows the clearing of the site over the weekend and the arrival of the 45 tonne Mobile Rescue Winder crane that can reach a depth of 3000 meters underground.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) spokesperson, Makhosonke Buthelezi said once they are extracted, the illegal miners are inspected for any illicit items such as gold nuggets, illegal firearms and thereafter assessed by paramedics on site. Buthelezi said those that require further medical care are taken to a health facility for further medical care, while those who are in good health are immediately detained.
“All illegal miners are processed to determine their nationality and their immigration status, and once that is done they are detained in police cells. Regrettably and it is unfortunate that of the 35, nine corpses were recovered in yesterday’s operation and pathology services have removed them from the scene.
“Following the deaths of these illegal miners, the police are investigating allegations that the food that was sent down, was allegedly limited and kept from these illegal miners as well as allegations of abuse and cases of assault, following videos that emerged from underground showing some illegal miners being beaten and tortured,” he said.
He further said Mine Rescue Services will resume operations in the morning and the operation is anticipated to last for the next 10 to 16 days.
The Guardian 