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By Matthew Impelli
Life & Trends Reporter
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A group representing illegal miners in South Africa reported on Monday that over 100 individuals have died after being trapped in a mine for several months.
Why It Matters
The illegal miners have been trapped inside the closed mine for several months. The coal miners were located inside a mine in the North West province of South Africa.
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The miners trapped in the Stilfontein mineshaft were reportedly facing shortages of food, water and other essentials after police blocked off the entrances used to deliver supplies underground. They were previously denied supplies as part of the country's efforts to combat illegal coal mining.
What To Know
Sabelo Mnguni, spokesperson for the Mining Affected Communities United in Action Group (MACUA), told The Associated Press that a cellphone brought to the surface by rescued miners on Friday contained two videos showing dozens of bodies underground, wrapped in plastic.
At least 100 men have died in a mine in South Africa's North West province, according to Mnguni. Mnguni said the deaths were likely caused by starvation or dehydration, with 18 bodies recovered since Friday.
Mnguni said nine bodies were recovered Friday during a community-led effort, while another nine were retrieved Monday in an official operation by authorities. During Monday's effort, 26 survivors were also rescued, he added.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Sebata Mokgwabone stated that authorities are working to verify the number of bodies recovered and survivors rescued following the launch of a new operation on Monday.
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Illegal Mining In South Africa
Illegal mining continues to be widespread in South Africa's old gold-mining regions, where miners enter abandoned shafts to search for any remaining deposits. The illegal miners are frequently migrants from neighboring countries, and police report that these operations are typically run by larger syndicates that employ the miners.
Their activity in abandoned mines has led to tensions with nearby communities, who report that illegal miners are linked to crimes ranging from robbery to rape. Illegal mining groups are often heavily armed, and clashes between rival factions can escalate into deadly confrontations.
What People Are Saying
While speaking with Reuters, MACUA spokesperson Magnificent Mndebele that there are still approximately 400 miners still inside the mine two months after South African police took action against them.
What's Next
While police began operations to remove miners from the site in November, it is currently unclear how South African authorities will respond to the reports of the 100 dead miners.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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