Stilfontein Illegal Mining
By Karabo Marifi
The South African government’s extensive operation to retrieve illegal miners, known as “zama zamas,” from the abandoned Buffelsfontein gold mine in Stilfontein has concluded. Over the course of the operation, more than 240 miners were rescued alive, while approximately 80 bodies were recovered from Shaft 11. 
Operation Overview
Initiated in August 2024, the operation aimed to address the rampant illegal mining activities in the North West province. Authorities implemented “Operation Vala Umgodi” (“Close the Hole”) to seal off mine entrances and cut off supplies to illegal miners, compelling them to surface. This strategy led to a prolonged standoff, with miners trapped underground for months. 
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
The rescue mission commenced in January 2025, following a court order mandating the government to provide aid to the trapped miners. Utilizing a cylindrical metal cage, rescue teams extracted 246 survivors and retrieved 78 bodies from depths exceeding two kilometers. Many survivors, primarily from Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho, were found in emaciated conditions due to prolonged deprivation. 
Community and Government Response
The government’s initial approach of cutting off food and water supplies faced severe criticism from local communities, civil society groups, and labor unions. The GIWASU labor union described the siege as the worst state-sponsored massacre since apartheid. Community volunteers played a crucial role in the rescue operations, highlighting the deep connection between local residents and the miners. 
Ongoing Vigilance
Despite the conclusion of the rescue operation, Acting Police Commissioner in the North West, Patrick Asaneng, emphasized that law enforcement agencies would maintain a heightened presence in Stilfontein. He stated, “Operation Vala Umgodi started in 2023 and we had pencilled it in to continue until May this year. It’s unfortunate that this has become our hotspot or focal point but we will be focusing on all the areas where there is mining.” 
Future Measures
Authorities have indicated that while the current operation has concluded, efforts to combat illegal mining will persist. The final report on the operation is yet to be handed over to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe. The government aims to develop strategies to prevent similar incidents and address the underlying socio-economic factors contributing to illegal mining activities. 
🔴Central News Weekly Edition 087🔴 Download the Latest Edition | Top Story: “Building ‘The Ngwathe We Want’:
Dr Mothamaha Drives Cost-Effective
Solutions with New Fleet Acquisitions”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube