DailySun
Pretoria – The South African government has strengthened its stance regarding the alleged rescue of illegal miners believed to be trapped two kilometers underground in the abandoned gold mines of Stilfontein, North West.
The authorities contend that these illegal miners, often labeled Zama Zamas, have the capacity to resurface on their own if they decide to.
In response to allegations that the Zama Zamas are stuck underground, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) remarked that some illegal miners have been voluntarily emerging from the dilapidated mine shafts in Stilfontein.
“This trend demonstrates that these individuals are capable of exiting the underground tunnels independently,” the GCIS noted in a press release issued on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
This statement appears to contradict recent claims from a group calling itself the “Stilfontein Crisis Committee,” which has accused the South African government of infringing on human rights.
The Stilfontein Crisis Committee made several statements, including:
- Food Supply Shortage: It has been reported that the food supply underground has been depleted for months.
- Equitable Aid Distribution: Survivors have indicated that any aid sent down is distributed fairly, rather than being hoarded or sold by alleged leaders.
- Incapable of Escape: The miners claim they cannot leave due to police action, rendering them without a viable exit. They urgently require assistance and intervention for rescue.
Despite this, the GCIS dismissed these allegations, suggesting that the continued resurfacing of illegal miners may be a tactic to evade arrest by law enforcement.
The statement added: “Contrary to the claim that the food underground has been exhausted for months, there is evidence indicating that miners had access to supplies until recently.”
“Assertions that aid dispatched below is shared evenly among miners remain unverified.”
The GCIS emphasized that the government has not sanctioned any official aid deliveries to individuals involved in illicit activities.
“Reports suggest that any supplies reaching the miners are controlled by underground syndicates, often resulting in unequal distribution and exploitation,” the GCIS stated.
“The notion that miners remain trapped solely because of police actions is misleading.”
The GCIS detailed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is implementing measures to secure the area and deter further illegal activities.
“Designated exit points have been created to allow miners to surface safely and face the impending legal proceedings,” the statement clarified.
“We cannot allow a situation where the government is held hostage.”
“All court directives have been followed thus far, including the daily provision of authorized food supplies.”
The SAPS has previously mentioned its collaboration with all stakeholders engaged in efforts to extract illegal miners from underground.
“The Stilfontein rescue mission is not as simple as it might seem… it is quite complex, especially given the depth of the shaft, which considerably affects the operation’s execution,” the GCIS explained.
“Unlike the operation in Sabie, where the shaft plunges 150 meters deep, the Stilfontein shaft is two kilometers deep, where these illegal miners are believed to be, making it a significantly challenging and high-risk rescue endeavor.”
In the meantime, the rescue team has indicated that the essential resources and expertise required for the operation need to be secured.
The practical considerations and risks associated with the operation are also being weighed.
Liability concerns constitute another important aspect.
“Police are not specialists in this field and therefore cannot lead this rescue mission,” asserted the GCIS.
“At this juncture, the mine must procure the necessary services for the rescue operation, which will entail costs.”
“We have a quote indicating that a 100% upfront payment is necessary.”
“It is crucial that the government approaches this process carefully and responsibly, observing the relevant supply chain management protocols.”
The GCIS stressed that these procedures must comply with established regulations.
“We urge all individuals involved in these activities to surface voluntarily and work with law enforcement to ensure their safety and well-being,” the GCIS stated, adding: “The government is committed to maintaining human rights and the rule of law in all its operations.”
The GCIS reiterated that the government’s position is to uphold the rule of law.
“Therefore, while immediate aid is not provided to facilitate illegal activities, measures are in place to protect and ensure the humane treatment of those who choose to emerge above ground,” the statement concluded.
The South African government remains focused on combatting illegal mining activities, which present substantial risks to both participants and the wider community, according to the GCIS.
Initiatives such as “Vala Umgodi” (Close the Pits) continue to restore abandoned mines and prevent further unlawful exploitation.
The GCIS also emphasized that efforts are ongoing to address the root socio-economic issues contributing to illegal mining, including unemployment and insufficient economic opportunities.
