zeit.de
South Africa to Rescue Trapped Illegal Miners
The South African government shifts from a hardline approach to rescuing illegal miners trapped in a deep mine shaft, highlighting the dangers and complexities of illegal mining in the country.
German
Germany
AfricaGovernment ResponseSouth AfricaIllegal MiningRescue OperationSafety Concerns
South African GovernmentSouth African Police
Senzo MchunuKhumbudzo Ntshavheni
- What has been recovered from the mine?
- The exact number of trapped miners is unknown, with initial police estimates ranging from 4,000 to 350-400. One body has been recovered from the mine shaft, and authorities are investigating the cause of death.
- What is the estimated number of miners trapped in the mine?
- The government's initial strategy involved blocking mine entrances to cut off food and water supplies, forcing miners to surrender. This approach led to the surrender of about 1,000 illegal miners in the Northwest province.
- What are some of the broader issues related to illegal mining in South Africa?
- Illegal mining is widespread in South Africa, often involving organized crime and posing significant safety risks, as well as societal issues like crime and violence in affected areas. The police have seized numerous weapons and a significant amount of cash and valuables.
- What measures did the government initially take to deal with the illegal miners?
- Police Minister Senzo Mchunu stated that despite the illegality of the miners' actions, the government is now focused on saving their lives. An expert team is tasked with creating a rescue plan for the miners.
- What is the South African government's current stance on the illegal miners trapped in Stilfontein?
- The South African government has changed its stance on illegal miners trapped in a disused mine in Stilfontein, shifting from a hardline approach to prioritizing their rescue.