26 Zama Zamas Apprehended at Abandoned Gold Mines in Stilfontein Following Recent Developments

Potchefstroom – This week, authorities in North West have detained 26 illegal miners who emerged from shafts at abandoned gold mines in Stilfontein.

For several weeks, there have been differing reports about the number of illegal miners – often called Zama Zamas – underground, raising concerns about whether they were trapped or deliberately evading surfacing to avoid capture.

Initially, reports suggested that thousands of miners were stuck underground and needed assistance to get out of the abandoned mines. However, this figure has since been revised to hundreds.

Using ropes to climb from dangerous shafts, the miners have been emerging in small groups – usually at night – only to be arrested by police at exit points.

On Boxing Day, (Thursday, 26 December 2024), police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh remarked: “Since Monday, (23 December 2024), up to today at 11:00, a total of 26 illegal miners were arrested for illegal mining, trespassing, and violations of the Immigration Act.”

Colonel Myburgh further noted: “Among the 26 illegal miners, four emerged at Margaret Shaft and 22 at Buffelsfontein Shaft number 10.”

“The arrested individuals include nine from Lesotho, four from Zimbabwe, nine from Mozambique, and four South Africans.”

Colonel Myburgh mentioned that in addition to the charges already stated, one suspect will face allegations regarding the unlawful possession of gold-bearing material.

Furthermore, another suspect was apprehended with explosives.

“All of them are currently undergoing processing and are scheduled to appear in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on Friday, (27 December 2024),” Colonel Myburgh confirmed.

The police spokesperson stated that “Vala Umgodi” operations continue throughout the province.

RELATED: Stilfontein Miners Still Stuck Underground: 27 Civil Society And Faith-Based Groups Refuse To Celebrate Christmas – The Bulrushes

  • Related Posts

    Usindiso Building Fire Tragedy: 76 Lives Lost as Alleged Arsonist Sithembiso Mdlalose Stand Trial

    Johannesburg – Lawrance Sithembiso Mdlalose, a 30-year-old individual, is charged with igniting a fire at the Usindiso Building that tragically led to the death of 76 people. He made his…

    Continue reading
    Minnie Dlamini Reveals New Romance and Dazzling Porsche This Valentine’s Day!

    Heads up, everyone—Minnie Dlamini has rejoined the singles scene, and she’s making waves! The former media personality and now entrepreneur has taken to Instagram to announce her new relationship with…

    Continue reading

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    You Missed

    Usindiso Building Fire Tragedy: 76 Lives Lost as Alleged Arsonist Sithembiso Mdlalose Stand Trial

    Usindiso Building Fire Tragedy: 76 Lives Lost as Alleged Arsonist Sithembiso Mdlalose Stand Trial

    Minnie Dlamini Reveals New Romance and Dazzling Porsche This Valentine’s Day!

    Minnie Dlamini Reveals New Romance and Dazzling Porsche This Valentine’s Day!

    Solana Fans Switching to Ethereum Ahead of Upcoming PayFi Cryptocurrency Launch

    Solana Fans Switching to Ethereum Ahead of Upcoming PayFi Cryptocurrency Launch

    Riveiro Talks About Saleng and Missing Players

    Riveiro Talks About Saleng and Missing Players

    Are Roses Still the Go-To Choice for Valentine’s Day?

    Are Roses Still the Go-To Choice for Valentine’s Day?

    Promising Young Footballer Seeks Assistance to Participate in the 2025 Dallas Cup

    Promising Young Footballer Seeks Assistance to Participate in the 2025 Dallas Cup