At least 78 bodies have been retrieved from a shaft at the Stilfontein mine in South Africa, sparking widespread criticism of the government's handling of illegal mining activities. The mine, situated approximately 97 miles southwest of Johannesburg, became the focal point of a tragic incident when a video emerged showing multiple bodies wrapped in plastic underground. The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) has condemned the situation, warning that the government's hardline approach could result in further tragedy.
Rescue efforts have been ongoing for three days, with authorities managing to save at least 166 individuals from the abandoned mine shaft. However, reports indicate that over 100 people may have succumbed to starvation and dehydration due to halted supply lines, a tactic employed by police to force miners out of the illegal operations. A court intervened, ordering the rescue of miners trapped in dire conditions.
"It is unconscionable that the South African government allowed this situation to deteriorate to such an extent. While it is true that these miners were engaged in illegal mining activities, driven by desperation and extreme poverty, their actions do not justify condemnation to death by starvation," stated a concerned observer.
The plight of the miners sheds light on the broader issue of illegal mining in South Africa, where more than $1 billion is lost annually. The country is home to an estimated 100,000 artisanal miners, colloquially known as "zama zamas," who often become embroiled in violent turf wars related to the black market trade in gold. The Democratic Alliance (DA), one of South Africa's major political parties, has also criticized the government's management of the crisis.
"Why the situation was allowed to get so badly out of hand," questioned critics, highlighting concerns over governmental oversight and response.
Survivors from the mine have emerged in severely weakened states, with SAFTU describing them as "walking ghosts after enduring weeks without food or water." The union further labeled the deaths as an "unfolding massacre," emphasizing the grim reality faced by those underground.
