South African Police Service
By Karabo Marifi
South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed on 14 January 2025 that 106 illegal miners were arrested, and 51 bodies were recovered from an abandoned gold mine in Stilfontein, North West Province. This operation, part of an ongoing effort to combat illegal mining, highlights the dangerous conditions faced by those involved in “zama zama” activities and the significant human and economic costs associated with the illicit practice.
Day Two of Operations: Arrests and Tragic Recoveries
On the second day of operations at the Stilfontein site, SAPS reported the following arrests by nationality:
• Mozambicans: 67
• Lesotho Nationals: 26
• Zimbabweans: 11
• South Africans: 2
These arrests add to the nearly 2,000 individuals detained since the operation began in August 2024, with 1,540 still in custody. The authorities also confirmed the deportation of 121 individuals, including 80 Mozambicans, 30 Basotho nationals, 10 Zimbabweans, and one Malawian.
Seizures and Convictions
The Stilfontein operations have led to substantial seizures since December 2023:
• Gold-Bearing Material: 640 kg
• Refined Gold: 6.2 kg
• Explosives and Firearms
• Cash: R52.49 million
Additionally, 46 individuals have been convicted of illegal mining, trespassing, and immigration violations. Sentences have included fines of R12,000 or six months of suspended imprisonment, conditional on no further offences within five years.
A Crisis of Life and Loss
The retrieval of 51 bodies highlights the grim realities of illegal mining, where poor working conditions and collapsing shafts often result in fatal outcomes. This brings the death toll to over 100 since October 2024, raising concerns among communities and advocacy groups about the lack of safety measures in abandoned mines.
Community Frustrations and Government Accountability
Residents in Stilfontein have expressed frustration over the government’s handling of the crisis. During a visit by senior officials, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe, tensions flared as protesters demanded accountability for the deaths and injuries of illegal miners.
One volunteer stated, “This thing makes us angry. I have taken risks to come to the shaft to assist where I can. [The minister] says nothing to us.”
Minister Mchunu assured the public that operations would continue for 10 days, with the possibility of extension based on ongoing assessments. “After ten days, we will assess if further work is required. We will continue until we are reasonably satisfied that all efforts have been exhausted,” Mchunu said.
Rescue Operations with Advanced Technology
Rescue efforts are being bolstered by advanced technology, including machines equipped with cameras for safe navigation and monitoring. Project manager Manas Fourie described the tools being used: “The cage has cameras at the bottom, inside, and on top. These guide us to ensure there are no obstructions and that it is safe to raise or lower the conveyance.”
The machinery also facilitates real-time communication between rescue teams and individuals being hoisted from the shafts, ensuring safety and coordination throughout the process.
Personal Stories of Loss and Hope
Families of trapped miners are clinging to hope amid the grim findings. Zinzi Tom, a relative of one miner who disappeared in July 2024, took legal action to compel authorities to expedite rescue efforts. Speaking about her brother Ayanda, she said, “We are hopeful that today he will come out. It’s long overdue, and we can’t be happy. But we are here to save those people.”
Illegal Mining: A National Challenge
Illegal mining, or “zama zama” activities, continues to be a significant issue in South Africa. Beyond the human toll, the practice results in economic losses, environmental degradation, and the perpetuation of organised crime. The Stilfontein operation is part of “Operation Vala Umgodi,” a nationwide initiative aimed at dismantling these networks and addressing their root causes.
Calls for Structural Reforms
While the government focuses on enforcement, community leaders and advocacy groups are calling for a more comprehensive approach. This includes:
1. Rehabilitating Abandoned Mines: Ensuring safety and preventing access to dangerous sites.
2. Creating Economic Opportunities: Addressing the socio-economic factors driving individuals into illegal mining.
3. Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Enhancing penalties for organised crime syndicates exploiting vulnerable individuals.
Minister Gwede Mantashe’s Perspective
Minister Gwede Mantashe placed responsibility on the syndicates controlling illegal mining operations. “If you go and steal gold, you cannot give anybody responsibility for that. The foot soldiers are taking this gold to somebody, and that somebody must take responsibility.”
However, human rights organisations argue that systemic failures, including delayed government responses and a lack of regulation for abandoned mines, have exacerbated the crisis.
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