Rescue Operation Underway as Bodies Recovered from Illegal South African Goldmine

Authorities in South Africa have confirmed the recovery of fifteen bodies from an illegal goldmine, with reports suggesting that at least 109 additional miners may have died underground. Since the rescue operation began on January 14, 2025, 44 individuals have been brought to the surface alive.

The operation was triggered by a letter that surfaced alleging that there are numerous dead miners still trapped in the Buffelsfontein mine, located approximately 100 miles southwest of Johannesburg. Activists from the organization Mining Affected Communities United in Action shared videos depicting wrapped bodies in tunnels and emaciated miners pleading for food and rescue.

In late 2023, police initiated Operation Vala Umgodi to combat illegal mining, which has proliferated in South Africa's northeastern mining belt amid the depletion of industrial mines. In an effort to force miners to emerge, authorities previously blocked essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine from reaching the underground workers. This strategy led to hundreds coming to the surface due to starvation and dehydration.

While police insist that the miners are free to leave, local activists contest this claim, emphasizing that many are evading arrest. A spokesperson for the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy acknowledged the dangers of the operation due to the presence of armed miners.

The ongoing rescue efforts, which could extend up to 16 days, are being facilitated by Mines Rescue Services with the aid of local volunteers. Miners who are recovered are being assessed for treatment before potentially facing arrest.