South Africa Rescues Miners from Abandoned Gold Mine as Death Toll Rises

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South African authorities have intensified rescue operations at an abandoned gold mine in Stilfontein following reports that hundreds of illegal miners have been trapped underground for months, with many believed to have died from starvation and dehydration. As of January 14, 2025, rescuers have recovered 36 bodies and rescued 82 survivors, according to police reports.

Concerns grew after civic groups estimated that more than 100 miners have already died in the mine, which stretches over 2.5 kilometers below the surface. These miners had been trapped since at least November when police initiated a controversial crackdown aimed at displacing illegal operations by cutting off food and water supplies.

Local activists and family members of the miners have criticized the government's handling of the situation, arguing that many remain trapped due to fears of arrest. Police, however, claim some miners have successfully exited the mine, which they interpret as proof that others could do the same. Authorities have faced backlash for their approach to managing illegal mining, which has been a persistent issue in South Africa.

The rescue operation, which utilizes a specialized cage to reach the deep-seated miners, is ongoing but will likely take weeks to complete due to safety concerns. Survivors are receiving medical attention, while those rescued face potential legal repercussions for illegal mining activities. The crisis highlights the dire conditions within many of South Africa's abandoned mining sites and the struggles faced by informal miners, also known as "zama zamas."

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