Pretoria – The South African government has strengthened its stance regarding the supposed rescue of illegal miners believed to be trapped two kilometers underground in the abandoned gold mines located in Stilfontein, North West.
The government claims that the illegal miners, known as Zama Zamas, are capable of surfacing on their own if they wish to do so.
In reaction to assertions that the Zama Zamas are trapped below ground, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) stated that some illegal miners have been voluntarily emerging from the derelict mine shafts in Stilfontein.
“This trend indicates that these individuals have the capacity to exit the underground passages independently,” the GCIS noted in a press release dated Sunday, December 29, 2024.
This declaration appears to challenge the recent weekend claims made by a group calling itself the “Stilfontein Crisis Committee,” which has alleged that the South African government is infringing on human rights.
The Stilfontein Crisis Committee put forth several accusations, including:
- Food Supply Depletion: Reports indicate that the food supplies underground ran out several months ago.
- Fair Aid Distribution: Survivors have alleged that any aid delivered is shared equitably, rather than being hoarded or sold by supposed kingpins.
- Trapped Miners: The miners are said to be unable to escape due to police actions, leaving them with no viable escape route. They claim to require immediate help and intervention for a rescue.
Nevertheless, the GCIS dismissed these claims, suggesting that the ongoing emergence of illegal miners may be a tactic to evade law enforcement.
The statement further emphasized: “Contrary to claims that the food underground has been depleted for months, there is evidence indicating that the miners had access to supplies until very recently.”
“Allegations that aid sent underground is distributed evenly among the miners remain unsubstantiated.”
The GCIS clarified that the government has not sanctioned any official aid deliveries to those involved in illegal activities.
“Reports suggest that any supplies reaching the miners are managed by underground syndicates, which often results in irregular distribution and exploitation,” the GCIS stated.
“The notion that miners are trapped solely due to police actions is misleading.”
The GCIS explained that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is working to secure the area and discourage further illegal operations.
“Designated exit points have been established to facilitate safe surfacing for miners while they navigate the legal processes ahead,” the statement elaborated.
“We cannot allow a situation where the government is held hostage.”
“All court orders have been adhered to so far, including the daily provision of permitted food supplies.”
The SAPS has previously stated its collaboration with all stakeholders involved in the effort to extract those illegal miners from underground.
“The Stilfontein rescue operation is not as straightforward as it may seem… it is highly complex, especially due to the shaft’s depth, which significantly affects the execution of this operation,” the GCIS explained.
“In contrast to the operation in Sabie, where the shaft is 150 meters deep, the Stilfontein shaft is two kilometers deep, where these illegal miners are purportedly located, making it an extremely challenging and high-risk rescue operation.”
Meanwhile, the rescue team has indicated that it is crucial to secure the necessary resources and expertise for the operation.
Consideration is also being given to the practicalities and risks involved in the operation.
Liability concerns are an additional important factor.
“The police are not specialists in this area and, consequently, cannot lead this rescue mission,” the GCIS asserted.
“At this stage, the mine must engage the necessary services for the rescue, which will entail costs.”
“We have received a quotation indicating that 100% payment in advance is required.”
“It is crucial for the government to handle this process with care and caution, adhering to the relevant supply chain management protocols.”
The GCIS emphasized that these processes must comply with established regulations.
“We urge all individuals involved in these activities to surface voluntarily and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure their safety and well-being,” stated the GCIS, adding: “The government is committed to protecting human rights and the rule of law in all its actions.”
The GCIS reiterated that the government’s stance is to uphold the rule of law.
“Thus, while immediate aid is not provided to facilitate illegal activities, measures are in place to ensure the humane treatment and safety of those who choose to come above ground,” the statement concluded.
The South African government remains dedicated to tackling illegal mining activities, which pose significant risks to both those involved and the broader community, according to the GCIS.
Initiatives like “Vala Umgodi” (Close the Pits) continue to rehabilitate abandoned mines and prevent further unlawful exploitation.
The GCIS also highlighted that efforts are underway to address the root socio-economic issues contributing to illegal mining, such as unemployment and the lack of economic opportunities.
