Authorities Conclude Rescue Operations at Buffelsfontein Mine Amid Zama Zama Crisis
The Stilfontein Mine tragedy has thrust illegal mining into the national spotlight. As of Thursday, authorities confirmed the retrieval of 78 bodies and the rescue of 246 illegal miners, commonly referred to as zama zamas. The government-funded rescue operation concluded after Mine Rescue Services (MRS) and community volunteers reported no further signs of miners underground.
Rescue Operations Conclude
Following a high court ruling mandating government intervention, the rescue mission spanned several days, covering the mine’s three primary access points: Margaret Shaft, Buffelsfontein Shaft 10, and Buffelsfontein Shaft 11.
Among the rescued miners, 128 were Mozambican nationals, 80 from Lesotho, 33 Zimbabweans, and five South Africans. Tragically, the loss of life has drawn attention to the dangers of illegal mining, with a total of 87 bodies recovered since the launch of Operation Vala Umgodi in August 2023.
Acting North West police commissioner Patrick Asaneng confirmed the site is now clear of illegal miners. “It is based on the MRS report that relevant government ministers will address what transpired here,” Asaneng noted.
Identification of Victims
Efforts are underway to identify the deceased, with South African authorities collaborating with consulates from affected countries. “Most of these individuals entered South Africa illegally, making identification a complex process,” Asaneng explained. Survivors are assisting in verifying the identities of those who perished.
Addressing Illegal Mining
Despite the rescue’s conclusion, authorities remain focused on tackling illegal mining, which Commissioner Asaneng described as a national crisis. Operation Vala Umgodi continues to monitor illegal activities at the Buffelsfontein site and other hotspots.
Law enforcement has arrested and charged numerous illegal miners, with deportation processes already underway for foreign nationals. To date, 121 individuals, including 80 Mozambicans and 30 Basotho, have been deported.
Accountability and Legal Proceedings
While the courts will determine accountability for the 78 confirmed deaths, allegations of additional fatalities have surfaced. Mzukisi Jam, spokesperson for the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO), claimed that Shaft 10 contains more bodies, potentially pushing the death toll beyond 109.
Police emphasized that the operation’s ultimate goal is to dismantle the criminal networks financing and orchestrating illegal mining activities. “Zama zamas are foot soldiers. We aim to target the kingpins behind these operations,” Asaneng stated.
A Call for Action
The tragedy at Stilfontein underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to address illegal mining and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The South African government and law enforcement agencies continue to face pressure to intensify their efforts to combat this dangerous underground economy.
Also read: Illegal Miner Shares Harrowing Tale: ‘I Saw People Starve to Death’ in Underground Struggle
