Cape Town – Efforts to rescue illegal miners trapped in an abandoned shaft in Stilfontein have faced setbacks as the miners continue to make additional demands.
The rescue operation, part of the government’s Operation Vala Umgodi initiative to curb illegal mining, has been ongoing for nearly a month.
More than 1,400 illegal miners have been arrested in North West since October.
While NGOs were granted a court order to provide humanitarian aid, such as food, water, and medical supplies, the zama zamas have requested non-essential items, including candles, snuff, and sorghum beer for a ritual.
They have also requested mayonnaise, washing powder, tomato sauce, beef, Koo canned beans, soap and deodorants.
[READ] Illegal miners, who remain underground in Stilfontein, have written another letter, this time requesting for various items including medicine and food items, including mayonnaise and tomato sauce.#Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/jyHoeDgWk4
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) December 9, 2024
These are not covered under the aid provision.
Authorities warn that these supplies could undermine efforts to dismantle illegal mining networks, even as the complex and costly operation to retrieve the miners continues.
[WATCH] Two more suspected illegal miners have come to the surface in Stilfontein in the North West. Those who remain underground are making new demands, which include that household items be sent down. @ZinikokaMhlaba has the details.#Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/fTBoTPLj79
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) December 9, 2024
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
